Joyce Meriam (Trepel) Lazer of Boca Raton, Florida and East Lansing, Michigan, passed away peacefully on April 19th at her Florida home, after a lengthy illness.

Joyce was born on September 15, 1932, to a musical family in Winnipeg, Canada.  A gifted pianist, Joyce was the winner of many competitions, and she also excelled as a student, winning the prestigious Governor General’s Medal.  Joyce gave up a promising piano career to study philosophy at the University of Manitoba, where she graduated with top honors and met her husband of 61 years, William, an Assistant Professor. 

After relocating to East Lansing, Joyce became involved in a variety of artistic programs, with a special interest in classical music. As a volunteer, she mentored students and spouses, from many countries who were at Michigan State University, where Bill was a professor.  Joyce served as an advisor to the Spartan Woman’s League, was a member of The Executive Board of the Women’s Auxiliary of the Lansing Symphony Association, and devoted time to her passion for investments. 

However, the majority of Joyce’s time was devoted to her family, encouraging and supporting her son Randy, and daughter Simone in their creative endeavors, while inspiring Bill in his.  Joyce was so actively involved in Bill’s global assignments that she was often referred to as a Goodwill Ambassador. They didn’t “retire” to Florida, instead, when the Governor requested that Bill accept an Eminent Scholar Chair at Florida Atlantic University, Joyce wasn’t necessarily opposed to the idea of an additional residence … in the winter time! She truly lived her philosophy — “try to do something nice for someone every day”. 

Joyce was a loving wife, mother,  sister, & friend, and leaves behind her beloved Bill, son Randy, daughter Simone, sister Shirley Senofsky, and extended family, along with so many who adored her.  She was preceded in death by sisters Freda Kaufmann, & Anne Smithen, along with parents Leya & Elia Trepel.

Those who knew Joyce would not be surprised by her wishes for a private family service, (which will take place in Boca on April 28th ) and scattering at sea.  Because Joyce was a most generous spirit, the family’s wishes are that donations made on Joyce’s behalf go to a charity of choice, or The Dr. William and Mrs. Joyce Lazer Endowed Fund, The School of Hospitality Business, Michigan State University, 654 North Shaw Lane, East Lansing, Michigan 48824. One can also donate by paying forward Joyce’s philosophy of doing something nice for someone daily.