Joseph J. “Joe” Kirschner, of Leesburg, FL, previously of Fredonia, WI was welcomed into Heaven peacefully to be with his loving wife Patricia, Sunday afternoon on April 19, 2020 at the age of 85. He was an awesome Dad to his children Michael of Germantown, WI, Jeffrey (Julie) of Sheboygan, WI, and Kathy (Thomas) Schneider of Little Kohler, WI, a proud Grandpa of Melinda, Joey, Alexis, Ryan, Samantha, Caittlyn, and Leslie, and an amazing Great-Grandpa to Madelyn, Gabriel, and Demarre Jr. He was preceded in death by his wife Patricia (nee Monka), parents Albert and Amelia (nee Karl), siblings Lucille, Hazel, Alan, Roland and Vernon, daughter Marjorie (Scott) Hagenow, daughter-in-law Janet (Michael) Kirschner, grandson Jacob, and great-grandson Emmanuel. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and by special friend Patricia Krell of Leesburg, FL.
Joe was born March 14, 1935 in Powers, MI to Albert and Amelia (nee Karl) Kirschner. He worked on the family dairy farm until moving to Milwaukee to take a job at American Can Company where he became a Millwright, and met his future wife Patricia Monka whom he wed in September of 1955. Joe served 6 years in the Army National Guard and Army Reserves as a Medic.
After a short stay in the Detroit suburb of Warren, MI due to a job transfer they returned to Wisconsin in 1968, settling in Fredonia where they raised their four children. Joe was a charter member of Northern Ozaukee Ambulance of Fredonia, which started in 1973. He served as President of the Fredonia Lions Club from 1990-1991, receiving the “100% Presidents Club” award from Lions International. Joe retired from American Can Company in 1989, after 35+ years of service.
An avid Packer, Bucks, and Brewers fan he always enjoyed watching a good game and occasionally attended games in person. In retirement, Joe enjoyed traveling, golfing, dining out, and spending time with friends and family; returning regularly to Wisconsin for holidays and other special occasions.
Joe was a supportive, generous and hardworking man. Family came first and foremost. He always “looked on the bright side” of life, always ready with a helping hand or words of encouragement. He will be missed by many, forgotten by none, loved by all.
In lieu of flowers, memorials to the We Believe Foundation, founded in honor of Joe’s grandson Jacob after his battle with Leukemia, and dedicated to provide support to the pediatric oncology patients and families of Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin. (https://www.webelievefoundation.net)
Funeral Mass will be held 11am Monday, June 29, 2020 at Divine Savior Congregation, Holy Cross Chapel, 5330 County Road B, Belgium, WI. Interment St. Rose of Lima Cemetery, Fredonia, WI.
*** COVID-19 recommendations will be followed. Masks recommended and exercise social distancing. Maximum of 50 participants in church. Thank you. ***
We are very sorry for your loss. Uncle Joe was a wonderful man and will be missed. I know he is in heaven welcomed by his family who passed before him. May God bless you all!