Joyce Riskedal Obituary
Joyce Riskedal Obituary: The small rural town of Leland, Illinois suffered an immense loss with the tragic passing of beloved resident Joyce Annette Riskedal at just 54 years old. Throughout her vibrant life, Joyce brought joy and served her community selflessly through her caring spirit, commitment to her faith, and devotion to her family. Though gone too soon, her legacy continues illuminating the lives of all who knew her.
Joyce Riskedal Obituary: Early Life on the Family Farm
Joyce Annette Riskedal (née Maierhofer) entered this world on January 14, 1969 in Ottawa, Illinois. She was born to James and Margaret (Kehoe) Maierhofer and spent her childhood on the family’s farm north of Seneca. Joyce is survived by her two brothers Les and Jeff, who took playful delight in tormenting their little sister growing up. This sibling teasing prepared Joyce well for later raising two mischievous boys of her own.
Excelling in School and Sports
A 1987 graduate of Seneca High School, Joyce excelled academically and athletically. She ranked as salutatorian of her class and left her mark as a record-holding volleyball player, drum majorette, and member of the state championship basketball team. Joyce later graduated from the University of Illinois in 1991 with a degree in elementary education.
Teaching and Mentoring Local Youth
Joyce briefly taught at Sheridan Grade School before finding her true calling mentoring youth in her community. She substitute taught at Leland School, coordinated the high school’s job shadowing program, and volunteered with local groups like 4-H, FFA, Vacation Bible School, and the Boy Scouts. Her caring presence impacted hundreds of young lives.
Marrying Her Soulmate
On July 5, 1991, Joyce married the love of her life, Brad Riskedal, after meeting the local Leland farmer at a college function. Their immediate spiritual connection marked the beginning of a beautiful 30+ year marriage defined by faith, family, and community service. Together they raised two wonderful sons, operated the family farm, and owned small businesses like Country Lights Soy Candles.
Spreading Light Through Candle Making
Candle making began as a hobby for Joyce, but soon grew into a major fundraiser providing over 100,000 soy candles to organizations nationwide. Her bustling Country Lights Candle operation eventually took over the farm workshop. This small business became a metaphor for Joyce’s life mission – spreading light and helping others.
Unwavering Faith and Church Service
A longtime member of Bethany Lutheran Church, Joyce’s Christian faith guided her daily actions. She coordinated church events, volunteered for committees, and organized community meals and festivals. Joyce lived out her beliefs by selflessly serving anyone in need with compassion.
Beloved Wife and Dedicated Mother
Beyond her public service, Joyce considered raising her two sons, Darren and Stephen, her proudest accomplishment in life. She later found profound joy in her new role as a doting grandmother. Joyce’s family brought her endless happiness.
Valued Member of Local Organizations
From the Farm Bureau, to Lions Club, 4-H, Boy Scouts and more, Joyce generously volunteered her time and talents to enrich her community. She helped 10 local boys achieve Eagle Scout status and continued leading Cub Scouts even after her children had grown.
Living Her Values Through Service
While Joyce seemed to carry the weight of her community’s service needs single-handedly, she was far from just work. She loved camping, four-wheeling, and exploring the country with family. Most importantly, she lived out values like faith, kindness, and community.
Leaving a Legacy of Love
Though Joyce left this world far too soon, her legacy continues glowing brightly in Leland and beyond. The countless lives she touched remember her as a devoted mother, generous neighbor, trusted mentor, and tireless servant of her community. Joyce Riskedal will always be beloved for sharing her light and love so selflessly with others. She serves as an inspiration to live purposefully, love fully, and uplift each other.
Visitation will take place from 2:00 – 8:00 PM on Wednesday, August 23, 2023 at Bethany Lutheran Church located at 235 E. Lundy Lane in Leland, refreshments will be available in the air-conditioned Fellowship Hall. Funeral service to take place at 9:00 AM on Thursday, August 24, 2023, with Pastor Hope Johnson officiating at the same location that Joyce loved to serve. Burial will be at Little Indian Creek Cemetery in Leland.
