Joel Hilbert Bradtke

Joel Hilbert Bradtke was born on December 15, 1942 to Milton and Adelaide (nee Nolte) Bradtke in Milwaukee. He was baptized into God's family on January 3, 1943 at Zion Lutheran Church, Columbus, WI, and was confirmed on April 14, 1957 at Emmaus Lutheran Church, Milwaukee.
Joel entered God's heaven on January 5, 2025, age 82 years. Beloved husband of Carol (nee Gensch). Preceded in death by wife Ruth Bradtke of 45 years. Loving father of Rebecca (Reino Jr.) Lesada, the late Sarah Grade, Daniel (Kari) Bradtke, Amy Kirschke and Andrew (Leanna Fotunato) Kirschke. Loving grandpa of Gene, Sonja, Blanca, Samara, Portia, Rayna, and Quinten. Also survived by 2 sisters, Jane (Ralph) Ketter, Joan (Kevin) McGlynn, brother John (Peg) Bradtke, sister-in-law Diane Weis, son-in-law John (Tracy) Grade, other relatives, friends and foster children.
In 1961, Joel graduated from Milwaukee Lutheran High School. Joel then completed his education at UW-Milwaukee, and served as a journalist/reporter, writer, editor and instructor. He also pursued graduate studies at Boston University School of Public Communication. Joel completed religious studies at Wartburg Theological Seminary, and served as a deacon/pastor and hospital chaplain. Joel also served as a captain in the U.S. Air Force 1966-1970.
Joel was an avid outdoorsman and accomplished carpenter, including building and maintaining a property in Adams Friendship. He greatly loved spending time in nature and observing all kinds of wildlife. Joel also enjoyed hobbies that included doing historical research, writing personal memoirs, and leading numerous Bible studies.
Visitation will start at 9:00am Saturday, January 18, 2025 at Harder Funeral Home, 18700 W. Capitol Drive, Brookfield, followed by a service at 10:30am, officiated by Pastor Collin Vanderhoof. Burial with graveside military rite will be at a later date at Arlington Cemetery, Greenfield, WI.
In lieu of flowers, if desired, a memorial can be given to Pilgrim Ev. Lutheran Church, W156N5436 Bette Drive, Menomonee Falls, WI 53051.
"Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses." (1 Tim: 6:12)