Joyce Fliess

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Joyce Kolker Fliess, who died peacefully on Saturday, January 18, 2025. Joyce was the beloved wife of Robert Fliess, with whom she shared 65 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they experienced countless adventures, retiring early to enjoy years of travel. They especially loved taking long repositioning cruises and exploring the country in their RV. Some of their most treasured memories were when their grandsons, daughter, and son-in-law joined them on these journeys. Born on July 11, 1932, in the Bronx, New York, Joyce grew up in Queens, where she was committed to her small, but tight-knit family. She and Bob decided to leave New York after surviving through one too many harsh winters. While they intended to settle in Dallas, Texas, they were greeted by snow when they arrived. As such, they continued further south, finding Houston to be their decades-long home. Joyce dedicated her life to being a loving wife, an ever-present mother, and providing unwavering support to her rambunctious grandsons. Joyce and Bob took their role as grandparents very seriously, helping to build a supportive and loving environment for the Houston grandsons and Adam in Nevada, during both the good times and difficult ones. Known for her strong opinions, her more-than-occasional “I’m cheating just this time” remarks when eating too much sugar, and her love of laughter, she was truly unique. Joyce was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Fliess; her son, Kenneth Fliess; and her brother, Alan Kolker. She leaves behind her loving daughter, Stephanie Fliess Gustafson, and her husband, Dr. Paul Gustafson. Joyce was the proud grandmother of five grandsons: Eric Gustafson and his wife, Jenny; David Gustafson and his wife, Camelyn; Neil Gustafson and his wife, Jennie; Brian Gustafson and his wife, Madeline; and Adam Fliess. She was also blessed with six great-grandchildren: Lily and Holden Gustafson, Raegan, Margaux, and Lucy Gustafson, and Avi Gustafson. The graveside service will take place on Friday, January 24, 2024, at 11:00 am at Beth Israel Memorial Garden, 1101 Antoine Drive, Houston, Texas 77055. Contributions in her memory may be made to the Alzheimer's Association Houston & Southeast Chapter, 6055 S. Loop E., Houston, Texas 77087, or a charity of your choice. May her memory be for a blessing and a source of strength to her family, friends, and all who knew her.

Joyce Fliess

July 11, 1932 - January 18, 2025