Joyce Woinarowicz

Joyce Woinarowicz, 90, of Stephen, MN, passed away on Saturday, February 28, 2026 in her home, surrounded by many of her children.

Joyce Noreen Clark was born at home on the farm near Stephen on February 9, 1936, to William and Nora (Germundson) Clark. Raised with the values of hard work that would define her generation, Joyce graduated from Stephen High School and attended Aaker's business college before marrying Carl Ambrose Woinarowicz on November 8, 1955, in St. Stephen Catholic Church. Together they had sixteen children, with Joyce maintaining a bustling household and keeping hearty meals on the table. Up before the sun every morning, she found time before sundown to do it all, while also managing to sew, quilt, make lefse, craft ceramics, and tend to massive raspberry and strawberry patches. Each of these activities became side-hustles, earning her a little cash in exchange for the outlet it provided her creative, resilient, and go-getting spirit.

Joyce and Carl were strong, faithful Catholics who were devoted to attending Mass regularly and raising their family in the Church. As they grew up, she enjoyed hitching rides with each as they got their driver's licenses (hers she'd earn when she was 55), with an occasional “secret” trip to Grand Forks. In later years, she became close friends with her daughter-in-law, Deanna, with whom she'd go on drives, walks, and share the joy of living across the road from each other.

After raising her own children, caring for her grandkids was a treat. She designed and stitched quilts for every child and grandchild; each stitch a testament to her generosity and affection for them all.

She is survived by her fourteen children, Davis (Tami), Terry, Todd (Nancy), Jason (Kari), Joy (Jeff) Edgar, Jill (Donnie), Dean (Janelle), Kent (Michelle), Julie Larson, Chad, Tim (Sarah), Cory, Lance, and Jodi (Bryan) Szczepanski; 36 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; and sister, Audrey Neil; and too many other relatives to list!

In addition to her husband of 55 years, Carl (d. Feb. 7, 2011), Joyce was preceded in death by two infant daughters, Tina and Lisa; daughter-in-law, Deanna Woinarowicz (d. Apr. 20, 2024); and brothers, Gary, Mel, and Duane Clark.


IN LIEU OF FLOWERS, as it is Lent, please instead Direct Memorials to Stephen Volunteer Ambulance or St. Stephen Cemetery.

MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL: Friday, March 6, 2026, at 11:00 AM, in St. Stephen Catholic Church, Stephen, MN.

A RECORDING may be found here Joyce Woinarowicz - Funeral Mass

VISITATION: Thursday evening, March 5, from 5:00 PM; Rosary at 6:15 PM; Prayer Service at 6:30 PM; and one hour prior to Mass.
INTERMENT: next to her husband, Carl, in St. Stephen Cemetery of Stephen, MN.
LUNCHEON: to follow at the Stephen American Legion.