WAKEFIELD, Mich. – Joyce Ann Pikka, 69, a lifelong resident of Wakefield, went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital in Wausau, Wisconsin, following a lengthy illness.

Joyce was born on June 13, 1956, and raised in Wakefield, where she remained throughout her life. She attended Wakefield High School and graduated with the class of 1974. Joyce was deeply connected to her community and proud to call Wakefield her lifelong home.

Throughout her working years, Joyce was employed at Little Bohemia, Fox Point and Jaquart's. After retiring, she devoted herself to caring for her dear sister, Janet Marie, a role she embraced with love, patience and compassion. Joyce deeply enjoyed spending time with Janet, going out for fish fries, sightseeing around Gogebic County, and simply being together, sharing a bond not only as sisters, but as best friends.

Joyce was a faithful member of All Saints Lutheran Church. Her faith was a source of comfort and strength and guided her through both joyful and difficult seasons of life.

Family was the center of Joyce's life. She was preceded in death by her parents, Wilfred Pikka and Elma (Aho) Pikka; and her brother-in-law, John Ashburn. Joyce is survived by her brothers, Jeff (Carolyn) Pikka, Joe (Lori Magnuson) Pikka and John Pikka; and her sisters, Janet Pikka and Judy Ashburn.

Joyce especially cherished her role as an aunt and great-aunt. She is lovingly remembered by her nieces and nephews: Jennifer (Andrew) Wallner, Molly (Zach) Ofstad, Denver Pikka, Dylan (Brittney) Ashburn, Caitlin Ashburn and Wendy (Corey) Hanycz; and by her great-nieces and great-nephews, Harper, Morgan and Colton Wallner; Eli and Evelyn Ofstad; Ryder Ashburn; and Kynlee and Corbyn Hanycz. Joyce celebrated their milestones, offered encouragement and surrounded them with unwavering love and support.

Joyce was well loved by her family and friends. Her gentle spirit, kindness and steady presence will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

Out of respect for her wishes, cremation has taken place.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 22, at 11 a.m., preceded by visitation at 10 a.m., at All Saints Lutheran Church, 1202 Putnam St., in Wakefield, with the Rev. Brittany Barkus officiating. A committal and interment will follow at Lakeside Cemetery, Wakefield. Luncheon will be served in the church fellowship hall immediately upon return from the cemetery.

Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, is assisting the family with arrangements. To send online condolences or to share a memory, please go to  lakesidememorialchapel.com.

Joyce Ann Pikka will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.