Pamela Joyce Stanger's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Pamela Joyce Stanger
March 9, 1929 – December 25, 2024
Pamela Joyce Stanger, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Christmas morning, fulfilling her heartfelt wish to reunite with her Heavenly Father and her cherished loved ones. Born on March 9, 1929, in Pocatello, Idaho, she brought joy to the world as the third daughter of Orville Baugh Stanger and Virgie Mae Richardson Stanger.
As the third girl in the family, her parents took three weeks to decide on her name, eventually choosing Joyce because of the joy she brought into their lives. All her sisters had both first and middle names, and in her late 30s, she decided to give herself a middle name. From then on, she proudly embraced the name Pamela Joyce, a fitting reflection of her vibrant and independent spirit.
Pam grew up in Northern California, where her family moved in 1937. She had a natural gift for dance, excelling in tap, ballet, and acrobatics. At just 16 years old, her talent and maturity shone as she took over her dance studio, teaching classes while her mentor cared for her young family. Pam’s love for movement extended to sports like baseball, basketball, and running, showcasing her vibrant energy and determination.
In 1949, Pam married Arnold Lecce, and together they raised three children—Cheryl, Jarnie, and Arnold Michael (Mike)—in Los Gatos, California. The family created cherished memories at the beach in Santa Cruz, their swim club, and Lake Tahoe. Although life brought changes, Pam’s resilience and dedication to her children never wavered.
In 1966, Pam met the love of her life, Gerald “Jerry” Welker, through a mutual connection at church. They married in 1967, blending their families and building a new life together. Though leaving her close-knit family in California was difficult, Pam’s love for Jerry inspired her to embrace new beginnings in Utah. Together, they owned and operated a successful drapery business in Ogden, where Pam taught others her craft. Summers at Pineview and Bear Lake became treasured family traditions, filled with boating adventures and late-night card games with her grandchildren, always accompanied by licorice, M&Ms, and See’s candy.
Life brought profound challenges, including the heartbreaking loss of her son Mike in 1974 and Jerry’s stroke in 1987, which ended their business. Yet Pam’s faith and strength carried her forward. They found solace in travel, spending winters in Mesa and summers at Bear Lake, creating memories that reflected their enduring love and partnership.
After Jerry’s passing in 2007, Pam found companionship with Dovell White, and they shared a brief but happy chapter of travel and connection. In later years, Pam returned to Utah to be closer to her family, finding comfort and joy in their presence.
Pam’s life was deeply rooted in her faith and service to her church. She and Jerry served a Family History Mission in Mesa, and she held many callings, including Young Women’s President and Relief Society roles. Her devotion to her family and her faith was unwavering, and she brought light and love to everyone around her.
Pam was blessed with seven grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-granddaughter, who were the true light of her life. She will be remembered for her boundless love, resilience, and the joy she brought to every gathering.
On Christmas morning, Pam left this world as gracefully as she lived, surrounded by the love of her family and the legacy of a life well-lived. We find comfort in knowing she is reunited with Jerry, Mike, and her Heavenly Father, enjoying a long-awaited family reunion.
Her memory will forever be cherished by her family and all who were fortunate enough to know her.
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