Joyce Alice DeBraal of Appleton, aged 96, passed away peacefully on March 30, 2026. She was born in Kaukauna, Wisconsin on December 23, 1929. An avid reader, golfer, bike-rider, bird watcher, and traveler, Joy seldom missed a chance to cheer on the Chicago Cubs or Green Bay Packers.

A longtime member of Grace Lutheran Church, Joy’s faith was a guiding light, and she cherished the relationships she nurtured throughout her life, from childhood friends to her church and mall-walking companions. Her gentle kindness left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Otto and Elvira Hass; her beloved husband of 63 years, James; her son, Dirk; her sister, Betty Biersteker; and her brother, Glenn Hass. She is survived by her sons, William (Christine) and Peter (Deborah); her granddaughters Dana Holtzheimer (Tyler), Emily McLamb (Brett), Katie DeBraal, Sophie DeBraal, and Lily DeBraal; one great-grandson, Mason Holtzheimer; and a special family friend, Laurie Fletcher.

Joy’s family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff and residents of the Linwood Community, as well as the medical teams at St. Paul’s Elder Services, McCormick Assisted Living, and Bellin Hospital, for their compassionate care.

A celebration of Life will be conducted at the Linwood Community Gathering Room, 1425 Linwood Drive, Appleton, at a date to be determined. Joy, along with her husband, James, will be interred at Riverside Cemetery, Appleton.