Joyce Itami Arima

Joyce (Itami) Arima died peacefully at her home in Meridian, Idaho on June 30, 2018. Joyce was born on May 2, 1958 in Nampa, Idaho to Dyke and June Itami, the youngest of eight children. Joyce attended Idaho State University where she met her future husband, Robert. She and Robert were married on June 27, 1981 and celebrated their 37th wedding anniversary three days before her death. Joyce always had the kindest of hearts, the cutest smile, and a generous nature. Joyce’s unconditional love for her family was an inspiration to all. Joyce was the mother of two wonderful children, Marc and Katie. Marc and Katie gave her the greatest gift – three beautiful and loving grandchildren, Juniper, Magnolia, and Keylee.

Throughout her career she worked for various doctors in the Boise and Nampa area. For the last 29 years she worked for the Coughlin Clinic. Joyce loved her job and all the people she worked with, and they all loved her in return.

Joyce was a true Christian in thought and deed. She taught Sunday School and went on a mission trip to Mexico to help impoverished children and their families. She followed Christ’s teachings with her unfailing compassion and kindness. She often brought friends, family, and acquaintances little gifts just because. She loved spoiling little kids, and even brought goodies to her dentist’s office. She would stay up all night creating elaborate birthday cakes for her grandma, mom and children.

Joyce was active in sports such as hiking, bowling, and tennis. Her true passion was tennis. She was an active member of the Boise Racquet & Swim Club until her illness prevented her from playing. She loved her tennis friends! In addition to playing tennis blocks and league together, they enjoyed several Walla Walla wine tours and girls trips.

Joyce is survived by her husband, Robert; her children, Marc (Krysten) Arima and Katie (Cody) Laws; and her grandchildren, Juniper, Magnolia, and Keylee. She is also survived by her older siblings: Dennis (Kay) Itami, Richard (Terry) Itami, Ronald Itami, Robert Itami, Judy (Wayne) Crosby, Janine (Chris) Hopkins, and Joanne Itami (Tim Craig); her nieces and nephews: Melanie and Jill King, Justin and Mariko Hopkins, Linda and Paul Craig, and Derren Crosby; and one great-grandniece, Niaylah King. She was preceded in death by her parents and her nephews, John and Jeff Itami.
The family wishes to give special thanks to Home ‘n Hospice and to Joyce’s tennis gang who provided meals for the family.

A memorial service will be held at Ten Mile Christian, 3500 W Franklin Rd, Meridian, ID 83642 on Saturday, July 7th, at 1:00PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.