Obituary of Joyce Bayko

It is with a broken heart that I announce the unexpected passing of my dear wife, Joyce, who suffered through this terrible covid virus and fought with all her strength but finally gave in on January 18, 2021 at the Markham Stouffville Hospital.

Joyce’s beautiful smile captured the hearts of many, and it captured mine over 54 years ago as we became best friends, lovers, husband and wife. My confidant and my teacher in many ways. I was at her side as she took her last breath that finally ended her suffering.

Joyce was a beautiful person who made people feel at ease with her great smile, a wonderful sense of humour and her unselfish compassion. Joyce never failed to offer to share what she was enjoying at the time, even with her beloved chocolate.

Joyce was a conscientious worker and worked at Maple Leaf Mills, Benjamin Moore, and the Canadian Government, always giving up her career goals to follow her husband during his career development.

Joyce and I were blessed to travel to many parts of the world to see sight we never thought we would see. Her only requirements during those trips were a clean bed and a clean rest room. She was a great travelling companion and it allowed us to experience may cultures and visit many historical sites.

Joyce’s greatest pleasure came from family get-togethers. It was during those times our home would be filled with fragrances of great cooking and beautifully displayed meals as we all gather around extended tables. But it was the laughter that filled the air that will always be remembered. Joyce enjoyed life especially with her close-knit family. You could hear her mother and sister along with Joyce, giggling and laughing at who knows what. Those times will always be remembered with fondness.

Joyce is predeceased by her father, Josiah, her mother, Freda and her sister, Ruth. She is survived by her brother, Kenneth.

Unfortunately, Joyce suffered from dementia during the last several years. It robbed us of enjoying more time together, but she never lost her beautiful smile or her easy-going manner. We were blessed to have two beautiful people look after her, Jennifer and Marielle. Their compassion and love for Joyce made it easier to accept her fate.

She will be greatly missed by her many nieces and nephews and their extended families.

She will be greatly missed by her little brother, “Kenny”.

She will be greatly missed by Jennifer and Marielle.

The hole in John’s heart will only be filled with great memories.

A Celebration of Life will be held at time in the future when it is safe to do so.

Should you wish, donations in memory of Joyce can be made to the Alzheimer’s Society, Research.