Joseph "Joe" Morales, a cherished husband, father, brother, grandfather, and uncle passed away peacefully of natural causes on January 20, 2025, in Luck, Wisconsin, at the age of 90. Born on March 20, 1934, Joe lived a life marked by love, kindness, and generosity, touching the lives of many with his warm spirit and unforgettable meals.

Joe was preceded in death by his loving wife, Lois (Larkin) Morales, his parents Leoncio and Maximina, brother Alfredo, sisters Annie Fernandez and Lupe Martinez, nephew Russell Martinez, niece Sylvia Martinez, step-grandson Robert Bueno Jr., and granddaughter Maria Morales. He leaves behind a legacy of love and family, survived by his sister Amelia "Mallie" Reynolds, his devoted children, Connie (Kirk) Sawall, Lee Morales, Joseph (Debbie) Morales, Daniel (Jackie) Morales, Sharon (Val) Riedman, Paul Morales, Eric Morales, Naomi Morales, and a lineage that spans across generations including 30 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, and other relatives who will mourn the loss of this wonderful man with a huge heart.

A proud graduate of Humboldt High School, Joe's passion for cuisine led him to culinary school, where he honed his cooking skills that would later define his reputation. After serving his country as an Army veteran, Joe channeled his love for cooking by opening a restaurant in Milltown, WI. He would later go on to become a respected union warehouse worker in the Twin Cities.

Joe's interests went beyond the kitchen, and he was a longtime attendee of the Milltown congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses. His love for cooking was a thread woven into every aspect of his life, and in later years he fondly recalled sharing some of his culinary creations at congregation gatherings. His dishes were not just meals but expressions of his loving, kind, and generous nature. Whether it was a family gathering, a community event, or a quiet dinner at home, Joe's cooking was a language of care that he spoke fluently.

Friends and family will remember Joe for his unwavering dedication to those he loved. His kindheartedness was as reliable as it was profound, making every person in his life feel valued and cherished. Joe's generosity knew no bounds.

As we bid farewell to Joseph Morales, we celebrate a life beautifully lived. His memory will continue to inspire and guide us, just as the aroma of his cooking once guided us to his kitchen table. Joe's story is not one of an ending, but a lasting impression on the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

The family will hold a celebration of life on Friday, February 7th at the New Richmond Golf Course in New Richmond, WI from 2 pm to 6 pm to celebrate Joe's remarkable life. His unwavering spirit and the warmth of his love will be honored in the hearts of his family and friends forever. Joe's journey may have come to a gentle close, but the memories he created will continue to simmer in the hearts of those he loved, much like his favorite dishes, long after they have left the stove.

Last Update: Jan 28, 2025 1:37 pm CST