Joseph "Joe" Chalakee

Joseph "Joe" Chalakee, age 83, resident of Coweta, OK, passed away peacefully at his daughter’s home in Coweta, OK, on Monday evening, June 16, 2025. He was born on February 14, 1942, in Coweta, OK to Legus and Nannie (Porter) Chalakee. Joe lived a life marked by dedication, creativity, and love.

Joe grew up in Coweta, OK and attended Coweta Public Schools. His work ethic and skill set led him to a fulfilling career at Gilcrease Museum for the City of Tulsa, where he served as an exhibit technician for 47 years. His dedication to his craft was evident in the meticulous care he took in presenting history and art to the public. Even after retiring, Joe's desire to contribute to his community saw him return to work at Coweta Public Schools as a custodian for an additional 10 years.

Joe's life was a testament to his passions. On December 24, 1966, he married Betty Wolfe, and together they raised three beautiful daughters, Joannie, Diana, and Shelly. His artistic talents were expressed through painting, building furniture, and wood carvings. Joe's love for sports led him to volunteer as a soccer coach and referee, and he never missed an opportunity to support his grandchildren at their sporting events. His pride in his Native heritage was a core part of his identity, and he embraced it fully throughout his life.

He is survived by his loving daughters, Joannie Kuningas and her husband Bob of Grove, OK, Diana Corbin and her husband Bryan of Lewisville, TX, and Shelly Chalakee of Coweta, OK. Joe's legacy continues through his 11 grandchildren, Marcus Corbin, Amber Smith (Chris Hosmer), Autumn Valentine (Caleb), Sarah Stach (Rodney), Tealey Morrow, Brittany Eisen (Conner), Brianna Corbin, Brandy Clemons (Cole), Makayla Corbin (Scott Dodson), Joseph Bowers, and Clinton Kuningas, as well as his 23 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. He also leaves behind his siblings, Bobbie Copeland of Tulsa, OK, James Chalakee of Coweta, OK, Sophie Lowe of Coweta, OK, and Tommy Chalakee of Bixby, OK, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives who will miss him dearly.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Legus and Nannie Chalakee, his siblings, Johnny Chalakee, Betty Campbell, Billie Baldridge, and Mary Chalakee, and his great-grandson, Camden Fisher.

Joe’s warmth, wisdom, and unwavering support will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of many.

A memorial service to celebrate Joe's life will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Cedar Creek Baptist Church in Coweta, OK.

Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.brownfamilycares.com. Joe's family has entrusted his care, service, and cremation to Brown Funeral Home & Cremations, 210 S. Broadway, Coweta, OK 74429, 918-486-5515.