Obituary of Joyce B. Collins-Mikkelsen

Age 91, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 16, 2018.  Joyce was born in Elmira, NY on May 15, 1927.  She was the daughter of the late Leman Balmer and Anna (Collum) Balmer.  She was pre-deceased by her first husband, Jim Collins, her second husband, Jack Mikkelsen and her brother, Howard Balmer.  Joyce is survived by her children, Kathleen Collins, with husband, Andrew Elston of Seattle, WA; Christopher Collins with wife, Katherine of Elmira; grandchildren, Jacob Collins (Naomi) of Philadelphia, PA; Megan Elston (Karin) of Milwaukee, OR; Lauren Child (Tom) of Burlington, VT; Kate Elston (Karl) of San Francisco, CA; Gregg Rogers (Jennifer) of Elmira; Megan Bundy (Frank) of Arnold, MD; Molly McKinney (Ben) of Arnold, MD; great grandchildren, Brian Rogers, Evan Bundy, Holden Child, Grady Elston-Power and Adyllan Rogers.  Joyce embraced everyone with unconditional love.  She was a gracious, generous and vivacious wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, and a snappy dresser. Joyce was active in her children’s and grandchildren’s schools, as well as numerous service organizations. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Woodbrook Assisted Living Residence in Elmira where Joyce resided for the past 18 months.  They would also like to thank Dr. Brian Cassetta and Doug Wilcox for their support and care.  At her request there will be no calling hours. Family and friends are invited to Joyce’s Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Elmira, at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, October 20, 2018.  Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Joyce may do so to one of her favorite charities, St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or to a charity of your choice.