After graduating from North Platte High School at age 16, Joe left home to attend University of Denver, where he met his beloved wife Betty. They were married on February 14, 1954, prior to Joe's enlisting in the Army, where he served as a First Lieutenant during the Korean War. He attended Law School at the University of Tulsa, where he earned his Juris Doctorate, graduating with honors. They returned to Colorado with their three children, Joe, Vandi and Julie, and made Boulder County their home. Joe traded his law career for the opportunity to own and run a family business, Don's Cheese and Sausage Mart on Pearl St. in Boulder. With lunch lines out the door and brats on the grill, Joe always managed to greet customers by name, add an extra-large helping of his famous German potato salad, or lend a kind ear of support to the many young people he employed over the years. Opening his heart, home and ski cabin to his ever-widening circle of friends, Joe was known for his humor, generous spirit and love of life. After retirement, Joe and Betty moved to their mountain home near Empire, Colorado, where they continued to enjoy skiing, golfing, dancing, collecting art and hosting friends and family. They often wintered in Treasure Island, Florida. Throughout his life, Joe's happiest times were spent behind the wheel of his favorite Mercedes with Betty at his side, music blaring as they headed out for their next great adventure. Always together, the pair explored all 50 states, delighting in local foods and traditions as they made friends from all walks of life. An unforgettable character, he will be missed my many. Joe was preceeded in death by his parents and grandparents. Survivors beside Betty included: children Joseph (Terry) Beeler, Vandi (Kirk) Mitchell, Julie (Andy) Rutkosky; sister Leota Marie Brosseau; grandchildren, April (Edgar)Monroe, Brendan (Elizabeth)Forsyth, Meredith (Zak) Monroe, Trevor (Elizabeth) Beeler, Patrick (Melanie) Monroe, Kristen (Jason) Hype, Emilia Monroe; and great-grandchildren Aspen, Dylan, Lily, Brendan, Chloe, Jazlyn, Kai, Elinor, and Adelaide.