Joyce M Eaton

Joyce M. Eaton

August 31, 1928 " August 31, 2010

Educator * Encourager * Nurturer

Joyce Marie Carlson Eaton flew away to glory on her 82nd birthday, on August 31, 2010, surrounded by family members at her longtime home in rural Mankato.

Joyce was born on August 31, 1928 in the northwestern town of Warren, Minnesota to Charles and Millie Carlson. She achieved a Physical Education degree and an Elementary Education degree from Mankato Teacher's College and a Master's degree from Minnesota State University, Mankato. She was an elementary school teacher at Le Center, MN, St. Joseph's the Worker, and Waterville-Elysian (25 years.) In 1953, she married James F. Eaton; they later divorced. She was a member of Save the Kasota Prairie, Rock Bend Folk Festival, the Retired Educators Association of Minnesota, American Legion and VFW Auxiliary, and Bothy Folk Club.

Joyce is survived by three daughters: Chris (Tim Willson) of Brooklyn Center, Vali (Phil Derner) of Mankato, and Patricia of San Francisco, CA; two sons: Jeff of Mankato and Clint (Beth) of Mankato; three grandchildren: Jared (Amanda) Eaton-Willson, Adam Michel and Katie Michel; and one great-grandchild, Elijah Eaton-Willson. She was preceded in death by her three brothers: Rueben, Curt and Floyd Carlson, and her granddaughter, Ariel Eaton-Willson.

Joyce touched and inspired the lives of numerous people during her 82 years with us on earth; and her zest for life, care for people and the environment, as well as her dedication to the Minnesota Twins and Minnesota Vikings helped her leave an unforgettable impression on us all. A celebration of her life will be held at her home at 24034 575th Lane, Mankato on Sunday, September 5th at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of cards or flowers, Joyce's family asks that you make a donation to support live grassroots music as Joyce did for so many years. Please send donations to: Rock Bend Folk Festival, P.O. Box 222, St. Peter, MN 56082. St Peter Funeral Home-Klein Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.