Mrs. Joyce D. Hassenplug, 72, of Rochester, was surrounded by her loving family when she passed away at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Mishawaka at 10:05 AM on Saturday, August 29, 2020.
On August 1, 1948, Joyce Diane Briney was born in Rochester. She was a treasured daughter of Harold and Norma Jean Zumbaugh Briney. Growing up she shared her childhood with a sister Kim and brother Mike. Joyce grew up on her family farm in Richland Township where she learned a strong work ethic. She farmed with her parents while helping to work the fields. Joyce attended Richland Center School for 11 years, then when Center consolidated with Rochester, she graduated from Rochester High School in 1966.
At the First Baptist Church of Rochester, Joyce and Charles Henry Hassenplug were married on June 18, 1966. They shared 54 years of life’s adventures. From their union came two children, Edward and Melissa. The family tree continued to grow with the added blessings of three grandsons.
With a great love for cooking, Joyce enjoyed preparing delicious meals for her friends at Geneva Conference Center, Culver Military Academy, Lifecare and Wynnfield Crossing. Over their years, Charlie and Joyce farmed together as a team. Joyce usually drove the truck or carts but many times could be seen perched up on the Oliver or Farmall tractor. They planted beans, corn, wheat, rye, oats and hay. They also raised a small herd of cross-bred hogs.
Left to cherish Joyce's memory are her husband, Charles; son Edward “Ed” Hassenplug of Rochester and daughter, Melissa “Missy” Kowal and husband Rob of Argos; three grandsons, William Hassenplug, Kyle Kowal and a step-grandson Wesley Kowal; sister Kimberly Caudill; brother Mike Briney both of Rochester and several nieces and nephews.
Preceding Joyce in death are her parents Harold and Norma Jean Briney.
A celebration of the life of Mrs. Joyce Diane Briney Hassenplug will be at 1:00 PM on Friday, September 4, 2020 in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 W. 18th St. Rochester. Pastor Bob Metzger will officiate. Friends may visit with the family from 5-7 PM on Thursday, September 3, 2020 in the funeral home and one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in the Richland Center IOOF Cemetery. Electronic expressions of sympathy may be made to her family at www.goodfamilyfh.com
