Joyce M. Burhenn of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at Dougherty Hospice, surrounded by her family. She was 86 years old.

Joyce Marie Kielman was born on May 5, 1938, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to Joseph and Elizabeth (Jandl) Kielman. She was raised in Harrisburg, South Dakota, alongside her three brothers—Bob, Rich, and Russell—and her sister, Betty.

In 1956, Joyce met Leonard Burhenn, her future husband. He found her cute, and she thought he was funny; they were both right. This marked the beginning of a 57-year marriage. The couple was blessed with two sons, Tim and Tom. Joyce had a fulfilling career in civil service that spanned three decades. She had a wide circle of friends and cherished spending her summers at Lake Madison, South Dakota, and her winters in Arizona—a combination that made for a wonderful life. She felt truly blessed.

She is survived by her son, Tom Burhenn of Tucson, AZ; four wonderful grandchildren, Carrie, Nicole, Amy, and Tim; and ten great-grandchildren, as well as two great-great-grandchildren.

Joyce was preceded in death by her son, Tim, and her husband, Leonard.

Her family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated healthcare professionals at Avera Medical Center and the Dougherty Hospice House.

A funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at St. Lambert Catholic Church in Sioux Falls, with a reception to follow. Interment will take place at Woodlawn Cemetery, Sioux Falls, SD.