Joyce Marie Kajer, 88

Joyce Marie Kajer, age 88, of New Prague died suddenly on Thursday, July 5, 2018, at Mayo Clinic Health System New Prague.  Joyce was born on March 14, 1930 in Chaska to Frank and Marie (Halloran) Kocks.  She moved to New Prague when her father transferred for his job during her high school years and graduated from New Prague High School.  She remained in New Prague and started working for Dr. Sladek as a dental assistant.  She married William B. Kajer on July 17, 1954 at St. Wenceslaus Church, just before Bill left to serve in the Korean War.  Joyce spent the majority of her career as the secretary at St. Wenceslaus Catholic School, retiring in 1995 after touching the lives of countless students and staff members.  She was a member of St. Wenceslaus CCW and the New Prague Fire Department Auxiliary.  Joyce enjoyed golf, card club, and garage sales.   Her greatest passion and joy came from spending time with her grandchildren and great-granddaughter, never missing an event that they were involved in.

Joyce is survived by her loving husband, Bill of New Prague; sons, Dr. Scott (Mariane Wheelock) Kajer of St. Paul, Kevin (Andrea) Kajer of Edina; grandchildren, Ben (Caitlin) Kajer of West St. Paul, Hannah Kajer of St. Louis Park, Matt Kajer of St. Paul, Margaret Kajer of Edina, Nick Kajer of Philadelphia, PA, Frank Kajer of St. Paul; great-granddaughter, Mackenzie.  She is preceded in death by her parents.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday, July 11, 2018 at 10:00 AM at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church with Father Kevin Clinton officiating.  Visitation will take place on Tuesday from 4-8 PM and Wednesday morning from 7:30 – 9:30 at Bruzek Funeral Home.  Burial will occur at St. Wenceslaus Cemetery followed by lunch at the KC Hall.  bruzekfuneralhome.com