Joyce Cortese

Joyce A (Daley) Cortese, 85 of Fargo passed away Sunday April 6th, 2025, at Highland Oaks Nursing Home in Elgin, Illinois.

Joyce was born in Britton, SD, lived her childhood and high school years on a farm in Cogswell, ND and later moved to Fargo where she met Gene Cortese to whom she was married to for 59 years.

Joyce devoted over 40 years of service working at Dayton’s/Marshall Field’s/Macy’s department stores. She took pride in helping family, friends and loyal patrons find the perfect gift especially during the holidays and for special events. She retired in 2019. Joyce was loved and respected by her former boss and coworkers, many in which she was able to stay in touch with during her retirement. Joyce was a true shopper herself and could “sniff out” a good deal in any situation.

In her early years Joyce participated in pheasant hunting, surprising her family with her 410 single shotgun skills. Joyce became an exceptional bowler, winning a ND State Championship tournament was additionally an avid card player. She enjoyed gathering with neighbors and engaging in conversations during many competitive rounds of Bridge.

All of Joyce’s children attended Holy Spirit School and Shanley High School in which she spent much of her spare time supporting sporting events and musicals. She was a loyal member of Holy Spirit Church.

Joyce is survived by her son Paul (Barb) of North Dakota, her daughters Cindy Cortese (Jen Trenda) of Illinois, Cheryl (Kevin) McNeil of Connecticut, and Vicki (Jesse) Dawkins of Arizona; seven grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.

Joyce will be remembered as a gentle soul, loving wife and mother, and loyal friend. She had a wicked sense of humor with a smile that could light up a room. Joyce loved going to the lake, an impromptu casino run and traveling to spend time with her children and grand “fur” babies. As a great sport she’d engage in any crazy activity they devised. Joyce enjoyed a cold beer, country music and a good dance next to the jukebox. She will be loved and missed by many.

Service to be held May 31st at 10am, at Boulger Funeral Home in Fargo. Following the service, Joyce will be laid to rest with her husband Gene at Holy Cross Cemetery. A celebration of life to be held at Sammy’s Pizza on Broadway from 1-3 pm.