Joyce Arlene Christensen, 91, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at Fargo Medical Center in Fargo, North Dakota, surrounded by her loving family.
Joyce was born on August 11, 1934, in Lakota, North Dakota, to Walter and Saima (Pihlgren) Koskela. She was baptized at Finnish Lutheran Church and confirmed at First Lutheran Church in Fargo, where her faith began a lifelong journey that remained important to her.
She attended Fargo Public Schools and pursued higher education at the University of North Dakota (Bachelor’s Degree), Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. (Juris Doctorate), and the University of New Orleans (Master’s Degree). Joyce built a distinguished career as a Certified Public Accountant, specializing in tax work, where she was admired for her precision, integrity, and dedication. She blazed a trail for many working women who followed.
In 1958, Joyce married the love of her life, Robert Christensen. Together they shared many years of devotion to family, church, and community.
Joyce had a wide range of interests and generously shared her time and talents. She enjoyed reading, quilting, playing bridge, participating in Bible study, and volunteering at the Heritage Center. She was a devoted member of the United Methodist Church, where her faith and service were central to her life.
She is survived by her husband, Robert Christensen; her daughters, Marla Christensen and Kathryn Christensen; eight grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren and five great-great grandchildren, as well as her brothers- and sister-in-law, and a multitude of nieces and nephews.
Joyce was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Kenneth Koskela; her daughter, Geraldine Christensen; her brother- and sisters-in-law.
Joyce will be remembered for her quiet strength, sharp mind, deep faith, and unwavering love for her family. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.
Memorial Service for Joyce will be held at 10:30 AM on Friday, May 15, 2026 at United Methodist Church in Thief River Falls, MN with Jeff Gustafson officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.