Joy Eldora Hoehler

Joy Eldora (Peterson) Hoehler was born on June 10, 1928 in Algona, Iowa. She was the eldest daughter of Thomas and Hope Peterson, and moved to Burlington, Colorado with her parents and younger brother Wilfred in 1936. A few years later she and her family moved close to the University of Denver. Joy would attend DU and was an active member of her sorority. One of her greatest achievements was winning a speech contest there. After college Joy married Richard Hoehler, they were divorced a few years later. Joy moved to New York City in the early 1970s, and enjoyed a successful 10-year career as an employment recruiter.
Joy returned to Denver in the early 1980s to live with her brother Wilfred in the Victorian house they inherited from their father. Joy worked tirelessly to help renovate this house and to promote the Historic Baker Neighborhood, the Broadway Merchants, and First Presbyterian Church. She would create promotional materials at her own expense to further those causes.
Joy was one of the brightest spirits in Historic Baker. She loved to meet people and share her enthusiasm about the neighborhood and her church. Joy also adored interior design, Victorian architecture, thrift stores, and garage sales. She loved her furry companions, Simon and Keefe for over 20 years. She also joined in celebrations with Wilfred and his children and grandchildren many times over the years. She is survived by her nephew Keith Peterson and nieces Kirstine Rand, Sonja Parson, and AnnaLis Visocky, and their families. Joy's enthusiasm and passion will be missed!