Clear and Breezy, 59° F
(Sept. 21, 1972 - March 29, 2016)
On March 29, 2016, after a courageous 18-plus year battle with three types of cancer, Joyce Hildebrandt traveled that wonderful journey to her heavenly home, to that city not made by human hands. Joyce spent the last several weeks in the loving care of her husband, parents, friends, and the angels of Spirit Mountain Hospice in Cody, Wyoming.
Joyce was born September 21, 1972, to Keith L. Eden and Brenda L. (McFarland) Eden in Powell, Wyoming. She spent her early life on the Honey Hill Farm in Powell, surrounded by five cousins, all cared for during the day by their loving grandma “Skinny.” Oh the tales that have been told of “helping” Grandma make dinner for all the family on the farm.
Her father served in the military and for much of her childhood she was a proud “Military Brat.” She attended public schools in Monterey, California, Munich, Federal Republic of Germany, Laramie, Wyoming, and graduated from Central High School, San Angelo, Texas. She always returned to spend summers with her grandparents in Meeteetse and Powell.
She attended Northwest College and received an Associate’s Degree in Business. Later she attended UTSA in San Antonio and the University of Wyoming, majoring in Business. She joined the Air Force ROTC and, until her first battle with cancer, followed her father’s footsteps to become an Air Force Officer. While in Laramie, Wal-Mart Corporation recognized her exceptional management skills and offered her the opportunity to train as a store manager. She worked for Wal-Mart for many years in Wyoming, Colorado and New Mexico, where she met the love of her life Timothy Hildebrandt.
Joyce and Tim were married on August 7, 2005, in Montrose, Colorado and, the absolute love of their life, Sierra (Cricket) Hildebrandt was born on May 14, 2007, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Joyce adored the nickname “Cricket” because Sierra was born premature and would make a chirping sound at the end of her cry. Joyce and Tim sacrificed their careers for Cricket’s educational opportunities in Wyoming. The family created “Hildehaven” on the Honey Hill farm.
Joyce worked for Powell Drug as a sales clerk, and later accepted the Store Manager’s position at Maurice’s Clothing in Cody. She remained working until just prior to her death.
Joyce was a lover of people and, while her years were few, she taught those she met how to overcome adversity and demonstrated her love for her God and family. Her many interests included Stampin’Up! cards, photography, art, and making scrapbooks. Much to her mother’s dismay, Joyce didn’t love cooking but when given the inclination, made the most delicious lemon chicken and salmon patty dinners. Joyce and her mother loved to travel together and engage in fantastic adventures. Even when she was in California for medical treatments, they made the most of life through sightseeing adventures.
Joyce was a dedicated member of the Alcyone Chapter #27, Order of Eastern Star and held the position of Associate Conductress until her death. She was also a member of the American Legion Auxiliary in Powell. She will be remembered for her charming smile, positive attitude, and the vibrant life she lived. Joyce will be greatly missed by all her family and friends.
Survivors include her husband Timothy Hildebrandt, daughter Sierra E. Hildebrandt, parents Keith L. and Brenda L. Eden, all of Powell, Wyoming; brother Fred J-E Eden of Ft. Worth, Texas, nephew Kenneth L. Eden of Cheyenne, many uncles, aunts, and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her grandparents Fred W. Eden, Hildreth (Skinny) Eden, Joseph McFarland, and Violet McFarland and her cousin and childhood best friend, Marty Mooren.
A private family viewing will be held Friday, April 1, 2016, at Thompson Funeral Home. Services are scheduled for Saturday, April 2, 2016, at 10 a.m. at the Union Presbyterian Church in Powell.
Memorial donations may be made in her name to the Spirit Mountain Hospice, Cody, Wyoming. An education fund has been set up for her daughter, Sierra “Cricket” Eden Hildebrandt, at Sunlight Federal Credit Union, Powell, WY.
Thompson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
