Joy Ann Dorothy Malitz

On Saturday, February 28, 2026, family and friends of Joy Ann D. Malitz said good-bye as she passed away at the House of the Dove in Marshfield, WI, at the age of 78. She was born in Merrill and was raised on a dairy farm in the township of Pine River. She was the daughter of the late Otto and Margaret (Erickson) Malitz. Joy attended and graduated from Merrill High School.

Over the years, Joy had many various administrative and accounting jobs, including Church Mutual, the Lincoln County Clerk’s office, Lincoln County Commission on Aging and financial secretary at St. Stephen’s United Church of Christ. She was an intelligent woman that was fiercely independent and self-reliant. Joy looked forward to antique shopping and craft shows. She collected unique glassware and wooden décor; she was particularly fond of ducks. As a farm girl, she was an animal lover, but especially was fond of horses, cats and dogs, including: Queen, Sheppi, Bunni, Brandy and Muffy. Joy was an avid reader, a loyal Packers fan and enjoyed watching auto racing. She was always looking out for her beloved family members, concerned with what was going on in their lives and would offer advice or just a listening ear. Joy was strong-willed, pleasant to be around and thoughtful. She will be missed dearly and will never be forgotten by all who knew her.

Joy is survived by her aunt: Dorothy Klade of Merrill, as well as numerous cousins. She is further survived by some wonderful friends: Sharon, Kay, Kathy and Emily. She was preceded in death by her parents and infant brother, Otto Walter.

Per Joy’s request, no funeral services will be held. A private graveside service at Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be directed to the Lincoln County Humane Society.

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to her friends and neighbors for their care, friendship and love that was shown to Joy; especially Kathy. The family also thanks the Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral Home staff for their support & services.

Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation Services of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.taylorstinewaid.com.