Jocelyn Avril Pronko passed away May 16, 2025, in Fort Collins, Colorado, at the age of 54, following complications from an almost lifelong autoimmune disease.

Born on September 17, 1970, in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, Jocelyn— “Jocey” to most—built a life marked by service, compassion, and devotion to both family and animals. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Dayton and a second degree in Veterinary Technology from Michigan State University.

Jocey dedicated 24 years of her professional life to the Critical Care Veterinary Teaching Hospital at Colorado State University, where her clinical excellence and mentorship shaped generations of veterinary professionals. As her colleague’s recall: "Jocey was and will always be an incredible woman. She was exceedingly smart, and one of her passions was to pass along the wealth of her knowledge to the new generation of technicians and veterinarians. Not only that, but she was a woman filled with love, kindness, and amazing humor. Her smile was always so radiant, it called for time to stop and bask in the joy that she is."

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Jocey had a lifelong love of horses. She found deep joy in riding, training, and caring for them—reflecting her innate gentleness and intuitive bond with animals.

However her greatest joy was becoming the mother of her son, Rex, over10 years ago. She was a “natural” delighting in his growth and the exploration of his world!

She is survived by her husband, Brian Turse, and their beloved son, Rex Turse. She is also mourned by her parents, Peter and Diana and her sister, Andrea Farmer (John). Jocey was always in the warm embrace of the Turse family; Brian’s parents Tom and Carol and Brothers Tom Jr; (Maribeth) and Rob (Cally). Jocey was a loving aunt to Opal, Raya and Haeden.

An Open House Celebration will be held on June 7, 2025, at the Wellington Manor in Wellington, Colorado, from 1:00 to 6:00 PM, Reflections and remembrances will begin at 2 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made at the following link https://www.gofundme.com/f/compassion-for-the-pronko-turse-family or to Animal Friends Alliance in Fort Collins. They do good work in rescuing and caring for animals – a subject close to Jocey’s heart.

A Husband’s Tribute

It is with a heart heavier than I ever thought possible that I share the news of the passing of my beloved wife, Jocey. After a long and incredibly courageous battle with illness, my fearless, tough, and beautiful Jocey has finally found peace.

For so long, she faced her challenges with a strength and resilience that constantly amazed me. She never wavered in her spirit, never let the weight of her illness dim her light. Jocey fought with every fiber of her being, and her bravery in the face of adversity will forever be etched in my memory and the memories of all who knew her.

Jocey was more than just my wife; she was my rock, my confidante, and the love of my life. Her spirit was infectious, her laughter was a melody, and her love was a constant source of warmth and comfort. The world feels undeniably dimmer without her radiant presence.

Now, as I navigate this unimaginable loss, my focus shifts to our incredible son, Rex. Jocey and I were blessed with ten wonderful years of watching him grow into the bright, curious, and kind young man he is today. Raising Rex was our greatest joy, and I know Jocey's strength and love will live on through him.

We will face this new chapter together, Rex and I, carrying Jocey's spirit with us. I will do everything in my power to ensure he knows how deeply he was loved by his mother and to guide him with the same unwavering love and support that Jocey always provided.

We are heartbroken, and the road ahead will be difficult. We appreciate your understanding, love, and support during this incredibly challenging time. Your prayers and kind thoughts are a comfort to us both.

Jocey, my love, you will be forever missed and never forgotten. Your strength will continue to inspire me, and your love will forever be the guiding light for Rex and me. Rest in peace, my brave and beautiful wife.