DEFIANCE, OH – Joy Marie Oelke, age 67, of Defiance, surrounded by her family, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus on April 7, 2024. She was born November 10, 1956, in McComb, Ohio to the late Orville and Phyllis Ann Stevenson (Durham). She was a 1975 graduate of Ayersville High School and later married Kim Oelke on October 16, 1976, at Defiance Christian Church. Joy worked as a travel agent and loved sewing, playing cards, and of course, traveling. She was a quick-witted, fun-loving person who had many talents/gifts. Some would even describe her as being onery at times. Most of all, Joy was a devoted wife, mom, grandma, sister, and dear friend; and will be greatly missed by everyone who knew and loved her.

Joy is survived by her husband of 47 years, Kim Oelke; children, Hollie Binder (Nick), Joe Oelke (Jill), and Lindsie Blanchard (Jacob); siblings, Sue Luessenhop (Ken), Kay Cattell (John), Hal Stevenson (Sue), and Kim McKibben (Mark); grandchildren, Taylor, Alexis, Ava, Page, Grace, Gwen, Lilly, Zak, Hope, Olive, and CJ.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, April 12, 2024, at 12:00 PM at Defiance Christian Church, 955 Standley Rd, Defiance, OH 43512, officiated by Pastor Mike Hasselbring. Family will receive friends beginning at 11:00 AM at the church. Instead of sending flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Defiance Hospice Center, the American Cancer Society, or to the church. For additional information and to view Joy’s online obituary, please visit www.churchfuneralsdirect.com.


Share on Facebook