The Wahkiakum County Eagle - Established as The Skamokawa Eagle in 1891

Joyce Hoven, age 73, of Cathlamet, WA died peacefully on Tuesday, August 2, 2022.

Joyce was born on November 11, 1948 in Ryderwood, WA to the late George and Doris Epley. She was the youngest of six children and was adored by her parents and siblings.

Joyce graduated from Wahkiakum High School and married her childhood sweetheart, Richard Hoven, on Christmas Eve of 1965. Together they raised six children, hosted a beloved foreign exchange student from Spain, Ana Delgado, who still refers to her as "mom" 30+ years later, and went on to foster numerous others. Joyce was one of the kindest people you could meet who opened her heart and her home to many. She was a caring and compassionate mother, friend, foster mother and grandmother who was selflessly devoted to her family and community - always making hard work look effortless and always available to those in need. "To know her was to love her." To be in her presence was to be in good company, and her absence will be felt deeply by all.

Joyce had a lively and adventurous spirit and enjoyed road trips, camping, spontaneous travels, taking care of animals, clam digging, gardening, board games, and baking. Most of all, she loved spending quality time with her loved ones.

Joyce retired from the Wahkiakum School District after a long-standing career, before which she worked for the County Courthouse and Columbia View Care Center.

Joyce is survived by Richard, her husband of 56 years, their children Linette, Shawn, Tim, Morice, Daniel, and Markeese; 11 grandchildren (one granddaughter shares her November 11th birthday while another granddaughter was named Joy in her honor), as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Please join in celebrating her life on Sunday, August 28, 2022, at 12 p.m., at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church with a service followed by a potluck reception. Graveside service and burial will take place at Greenwood Cemetery on Saturday, September 3, 2022 at 1 p.m. (reception details to be determined). If desired, flowers can be sent to Dowling Funeral Home or the Hoven residence at 21 Morgan Dr. Cathlamet, WA 98612. A contribution may be made to the Hoven Family Meal Train at mealtrain.com/mmgm66.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the wonderful help and care given by the Southwest Washington Medical Center in Joyce's final days.