Georgiana “Joy” Siekirk of Comstock Park, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away on March 28, 2021, at age 88. Joy was born to Elsie and Joseph Kessel in Irons, MI, on March 14, 1933. She met her husband of 46 years, John II, in Irons and together they relocated to Comstock Park and had two children: John lll (Amy; Clarkston, MI) and Joseph (Rita; Fenton, MI). She was also a caring sister to Dave, Rosie, Diane, and Barb and had many beloved nieces and nephews.
Joy was known as "Grandma Joy" not only to her own grandchildren Eric, Courtney, Nicolas, Kara, and Chad, but to countless children in the extended family, neighborhood, and local community. Known also as “GiGi” to Aiden, Isaac, Leah, and Grayson. Grandma Joy was kind and true-hearted. She entertained our banter with her dry and endearing wit. Joy regretted never becoming a schoolteacher, but she taught us how to be proactive, independent and loyal. Often, she guided “right” vs. “wrong" and led by doing. She cared for others before caring for herself. So, it seems she taught after all.
Joy was an avid storyteller. She and her husband John II returned to Irons to build the “4J Ranch” hunting cabin, the origin of many tales involving Michigan Whitetail and Manistee Steelhead. She loved to tell the story of her pet deer (Poochie) and how her farm was among the first to get electricity. The story was later transcripted to text in "The Circle of Brightness: Rural Americans Recall the Day the Lights Came On."
Joy was an active member of the Comstock Park Congregational UCC. She loved sewing and quilting and baked beautiful birthday cakes – creating everything from Barbie masterpieces to U of M football stadiums – for family members and friends alike.
Joy will be laid to rest at Rosedale Memorial Park, where a small immediate family service will be held. A Celebration of Life gathering will be held at a later date. In place of flowers, donations may be made to Meals on Wheels, West Michigan Partnership for Children (WMPC), or Kids’ Food Basket (West Michigan) on her behalf.
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