Joseph ‘Joe’ Richards

MARQUETTE, MI-Joseph ‘Joe’ Richards, age 80, of Ishpeming, and a current resident of Marquette County Medical Care Facility, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 15, 2025.

Joe was born on December 25, 1944, in Ishpeming, Michigan, the eldest of three children to the late Frank and Lucy (Stagliano) Richards. He was a graduate of National Mine High School and went on to have a long and dedicated career at Cleveland-Cliffs Iron Company (CCI).

On February 7, 1970, Joe married the love of his life, Donna Levi. Together they built a home and a life on County Road 581 in Ishpeming, raising their daughter, Michele.

Joe was a devoted outdoorsman who loved hunting, and he could often be found tinkering in the garage or puttering around the yard. He had a deep love for animals, especially his beloved cat Snuggles and his faithful dogs, Dusty and Moses-companions who never left his side and shared many rides around town. He was known for buying out the store’ supply of jerky sticks to make sure they always had snacks on hand.

A true character, Joe had a quick wit and a great sense of humor. He loved watching westerns, joking with family, and working on projects-often alongside his brother, Frank. He also had a special place in his heart for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought him endless joy.

Joe was a man with a big heart who was always willing to lend a helping hand, especially when it came to anything mechanical. If it could be fixed, Joe would find a way.

During his time at Marquette County Medical Care Facility, Joe enjoyed participating in games and activities such as bingo and checkers. His daughter Michele and the family extend their heartfelt thanks to the entire MCMCF staff for the compassionate and loving care they provided to Joe during his time there. Michele- ‘would like to thank all of the staff at MCMCF, you are all angels, and I cannot thank you enough for the care you gave my dad.’

Joe is survived by his daughter, Michele and son-in law, Mark Bertucci of Ishpeming; grandchildren: Shane (Steve) Nardi-Taylor, Nick (girlfriend Lacy Miller) Bertucci, and Mariah Bertucci (boyfriend Erik Reynolds and children Torryn and Brantley Reynolds); and great-granddaughters Oaklynn Bertucci and Brynleigh Reynolds, all of whom he adored. He is also survived by his siblings, Betty (Jim) Miller and Frank Richards; sisters-in-law Janet Wiley and Sandy Levi; and nieces and nephews: Diana Windahl, Terri Jo (Jared Axford), Joey (Jamie) Richards, and Lisa (Bill) Wiley-Westman; as well as several great-nieces and nephews.

He also leaves behind his special family and ‘kids’: Marc (‘Twink’) Prey, Lori Brewer, and his ‘buddy’, cousin Laurie Collins.

Joe was preceded in death by his beloved wife Donna in 2016; his parents, Frank and Lucy Richards; parents-in-law Jean and Martin Levi; brother-in-law Bob Wiley; sister-in-law Kelly Richards; cousin-in-law Eric Collins; and nephew Steve Windahl.

Joe will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Joe’s family will greet relatives and friends at the Bjork and Zhulkie Funeral Home from 11:00am until 1:00pm on Wednesday August 20, 2025. A memorial service will be held at 1:00pm with Vicar Robert Lake officiating. Interment will take place at a later date in the Ishpeming Cemetery with his wife Donna.

Joe’s obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.