Joseph Leonard "Joey" Dehmer

We celebrate the life and legacy of Joseph "Walleye Joe" Dehmer, who passed away after a lifetime devoted to family, community, and the outdoors.

Born on December 11, 1939, Joey spent his entire life in St. Michael. He graduated from St. Michael Catholic School, where he played baseball, football, and basketball. Following high school, Joe served his country in the Army and was honorably discharged after two years when his unit was no longer needed. He went on to attend St. Cloud State, aspiring to become a history teacher. It was during this time that he met Patricia Peterson, who would become his beloved wife. When his father Oscar became ill, Joe returned home to manage the family business, Dehmer's Meats.

Joe and Patricia married in 1962 and together raised three children: Colleen "Kim", Tony, and Eddy. In 1979, Joe partnered with Bob Hageman to establish J&B Meats, helping the business thrive until 1987. Later, he and a group of partners opened a successful beef processing plant in Buffalo Lake, MN. In 2005, his son Tony and daughter-in-law Amy took over the meat market, continuing the family tradition. After retiring, Joe embraced his love for fishing, hunting, card games, and caring for his immaculate lawn.

Joe's commitment to service was unwavering. He was a proud Army veteran, a founding member of the St. Michael Lions, a volunteer firefighter and fire chief, and he served as mayor of St. Michael. He was an active member of the Crow River Sportsman Club and was known for his passion for the outdoors, especially walleye fishing-earning him the nickname "Walleye Joe." Whether on open water or ice, Joe created fond memories and lasting friendships, always quick with a story and a laugh. His love of card games was legendary, and win or lose, he made everyone feel welcome at the table.

Joe's life was rich with accomplishment, service, and joy. His memory will be cherished by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Preceded in death by his parents, Oscar and Magdalen Dehmer; brother, Dennis Dehmer; sister, Barbara Dehmer; brother-in-law, Carroll Zachmann; and Kim's fiancé, Rick Thoma.

Survived by his wife, Patricia Dehmer; children, Colleen "Kim" Dehmer (Chris Peterson), Anthony Dehmer (Amy), and Edward Dehmer (Amanda); sisters, Catherine Zachmann (Carroll), Dorothy Solst, and Denice Robertson (Marty); and sister-in-law, Colleen Peterson.

He is also survived by his grandchildren, Kassandra Eull (Shane), Andrew Dehmer (Sarah), Miranda Dehmer (Bryan), Chloe Dehmer (Preston), Gideon Dehmer, Miles Gillum, and Moses Gillum; and great-grandchildren, Avery Eull, Wesley Eull, and Finnley Dehmer.

A Legacy video featuring Joe's spirit and pride in the family business is available to watch for those who wish to remember him: https://vimeo.com/333472310

Evening Visitation will be held Monday, February 16, 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM (Prayer Service at 6:00 PM) at The Peterson Chapel, 300 Main Street North, St. Michael, MN.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 11:00 AM (Visitation at 10:00 AM) at the St. Michael Catholic Church, 11300 Frankfort Parkway NE, St. Michael, MN. Interment with military honors to follow at St. Michael Catholic Cemetery.

Service will be livestreamed via the link: https://www.youtube.com/c/StMichaelCatholicChurchStMichaelMN

Arrangements have been entrusted to The Peterson Chapel of St. Michael – Albertville. Online condolences for the family may be directed to www.thepetersonchapel.com