Mark Lawrence Joyce; 1963-2026

It is with sorrow we announce the passing of a loving husband, father and grandfather, Mark L. Joyce, who left us on April 18 at the age of 62. 

Mark was born Oct. 8, 1963, to Thomas and Geraldine Joyce of Juntura, OR. He was the seventh of eight children. He graduated from Vale High School in 1982. Mark attended college in Bend, OR, for three months before returning home to pursue his passion of ranching, becoming a third-generation rancher and continuing his grandparents’ legacy alongside his family. His hard work on the ranch would provide the promise of passing the legacy to the next generations. Living and working on the ranch brought Mark the opportunity to share his interest in hunting. Family and friends can cherish the memories made during hunting seasons with him. 

Through the shared enjoyment of team roping, Mark met the love of his life, Wendy Kemble. Mark and Wendy were married on Sept. 17, 1988. They worked side by side for many years moving cattle and herding sheep, haying meadows and farming in Vale; they always supported each other. They celebrated 37 years of marriage before his passing. Their love for each other brought two sons, Martin and Nicholas. Many memories were created among the four of them—from brandings and sheep camp to hunting adventures, and countless moments shared with family, friends and community members. Throughout the years, Mark proudly served on multiple boards, including the Juntura School Board and Juntura Road District. 

Despite challenging health issues, Mark never let kidney failure, nor cancer, define him and remained dedicated to working on the ranch and supporting his family. His family will forever be grateful for his sister, Rosemary, donating her kidney and providing him with years of watching his sons grow. He never complained about his pain and was always thankful to those who helped during difficult times. Most importantly, Mark never lost his faith in God.  

Mark was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Geraldine. He is survived by his wife, Wendy; his sons, Martin (Brooke) and Nick (Sage); and his grandchildren, Rory Ray and Teo James. 

“If I die tomorrow, I’ll be with the Lord. If I live tomorrow, the Lord will be with me. Either way, I belong to Him. And I can never thank Him enough for staying by my side through thick and thin. Amen.”