Joyce Marie Foster

                                              August 22, 1937 - May 8, 2024

Joyce Foster, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on May 8, 2024, at the age of 86. Born in Nova Scotia, Canada, on August 22, 1937, Joyce's life was a testament to her unwavering dedication to serving others and spreading joy wherever she went.

Joyce embarked on her journey of caring for others early in life, earning her Registered Nurse (RN) degree from Children’s Hospital in Halifax, Nova Scotia, in 1958. She later pursued her Bachelor of Arts degree from Linfield College in 1977. Her career as an RN took her across the United States and Canada, where she touched countless lives with her compassionate care. After 28 years of service, Joyce retired from Sacred Heart Hospital in 1998.

In 1971, Joyce and her husband William Foster relocated to Oregon from Nova Scotia, Canada. Although their paths diverged later in life, Joyce continued to embrace new adventures. She became a proud U.S. citizen in 1993 and found love and companionship with Emil Kordon, with whom she shared many rafting expeditions and camping adventures across the United States and Canada.

A pillar of her community, Joyce dedicated herself to making a difference in the lives of children, families, and first responders. As a member of the Springfield Elks, she organized fundraising events benefiting various causes, including the Springfield K9Unit. One of her proudest achievements was her involvement in the placement of a guardrail on Jasper Lowell road, where accidents had tragically claimed lives. 

Joyce found joy in the simple pleasures of life, whether it was exploring Bryce Canyon, hosting fabulous lobster cookouts in Nova Scotia, or running the Butte to Butte race year after year, where she still holds an age group record. She had a passion for animals and rescued many throughout her lifetime. Alongside Emil, she raised border collies, some of which she trained as therapy dogs, bringing comfort to schools and nursing homes fora decade.

A talented artist, Joyce found solace in photographing flowers and crafting beautiful quilts for her family and friends. Her creativity extended to making cards adorned with her floral photography, spreading cheer to all who received them. Joyce will be deeply missed by her daughter Holly, son Bruce, and their families, as well as Dan and Marilyn Kordon and their family. She leaves behind several grandchildren, great-grandchildren,and cherished family members in Canada.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to https://www.green-hill.org , in memory of Joyce Foster. Your contribution will support their mission of providing care and shelter to animals in need.

Per Joyce’s request, there will be no memorial service.