Noreen H Boyce

Noreen Rose Hollenbeck Boyce went home to be with her heavenly Father on Monday, December 18, 2017.

Noreen was born May 10, 1928, in Toledo, Ohio. Raised in Cleveland and educated in Catholic schools, she entered the Ursuline Convent at Villa Angela on Lake Erie on September 24, 1946, as Sister Mary Donald. Three years later, while preparing to take final vows, she left the convent, feeling called by God to marry and to raise a family.

During a trip to California, Noreen met the love of her life, Charlie Boyce. They were married in February 1952. Together they raised a family of nine children. They were married for 65 years and 10 months.

Known to her family as Nody Rose, her overflowing sense of humor brightened every room. Her artistic sense was on display from her early days. She tried her hand at violin, sang beautifully, hooked rugs, decorated cakes, and filled her home with beautiful collectibles that hearkened back to her family’s Irish heritage. Nody blessed each of her children with a hand-crafted heirloom jewelry Christmas tree—cherished to this day as a tribute to their loving mother.

Nody’s devotion to Charlie and their many children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was the glue that bound together the tight-knit Boyce clan. Her family will always remember the joy that lit up her eyes when they all gathered. Nody was quick to share how blessed she felt to be the matriarch of such a vibrant family. But it was obvious to all that her warmth, humor, and faith were the true blessings for those she loved.

Nody is survived by her husband Charlie; their nine children, Christopher (Cait), Kathleen (Doug Cavanaugh), Theresa (Denny Hutchins), Patricia (David Cox), Carey, Erin (Brian Peterson), Matthew, Brian, and Michael (Kelly); eighteen grandchildren; and twelve great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother Donald Hollenbeck (Marge) and sisters Charlotte Vall and Lynn Kuennen (Bruce), and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Cherished by everyone who knew her, Nody will be lovingly remembered and greatly missed.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, January 22, at 10:00 a.m. followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. at St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Gig Harbor, Washington.