Mary Lou Joyce

White Bear Lake, Minn.

Mary Lou Joyce, age 71, of White Bear Lake, MN., passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. Born and raised in Minot, ND, she was the beloved daughter of Lawrence and Phyllis (Bonebrake) Joyce. Mary Lou graduated from Minot High School in 1971. She furthered her education at Business College earning a degree as a dental assistant and dedicated several years to her profession. Later, she went to work for MDU in both Minot and Bismarck.

In 1975, Mary Lou married Tom Shipman, and they welcomed two children, Michaela and Kyle.

An athlete in her youth, Mary Lou played softball and volleyball before turning her focus to skiing and camping. Many weekends were spent at Lake Metigoshe with her Uncle Kay and Aunt Arlene Bonebrake, creating lifetime memories.

Mary Lou was a devoted daughter, consistently caring for her mother during her declining health. Her commitment ensured that her mother could remain in her home until just weeks before her passing.

Mary Lou’s greatest gift was her remarkable ability to connect with people. She had an exceptional talent for remembering names, birthdays and special events, always making time to ask about everyone’s children and grandchildren. Her genuine interest in others left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Her greatest joy came from the birth of her grandchildren, Liam and Sloane with whom she shared a special bond. She eventually moved to Minnesota to be closer to them.

Mary Lou is survived by her children, Michaela (Dan) Keys of Roseville, MN, and Kyle Shipman of Bismarck; her grandchildren Liam and Sloane; her brother Tom Joyce of Hartford, Connecticut; her sister Julie (Bryan) Hoffer of Garrison, ND; her niece Johnna (Vegas) Varty of Berthold, ND; her nephew John Hoffer of Boston, Massachusetts; and numerous friends and extended family.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence and Phyllis Joyce, and her brother John Joyce.

A celebration of life will take place November 22, 2024, at Rosehill Cemetery at 11:00, at gate 4, with a luncheon at 12:00 at the Grand Hotel in Minot, ND for friends and family. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your local food bank.

Published by The Minot Daily News, November 9, 2024.