Joseph G. Korb

Joseph “Joe” G. Korb, age 78, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away peacefully on February 12, 2025. Born on October 27, 1946, in Kansas City, Missouri, he lived a life defined by service, selflessness, and a deep commitment to family, faith, and community. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Eunice Korb of Overland Park, Kansas; his sister, Jennifer Motzkus of Shawnee, Kansas; and his brother, Paul Korb of Olathe, Kansas, Joe is survived by his loving wife, Nancy L. Korb, of Columbia, Missouri; his daughters, Christine Eaton (husband Ken) of Olathe, Kansas and Pamela Eckhoff (husband Donald) of Cole Camp, Missouri; his son, Joseph "Brian" Korb (wife Lacy) of Centralia, Missouri; and his cherished grandchildren Audrey, Drew, Claire, Grace, Luke, Ellie, Matt, and Callan, along with his beloved dog, Duke. He is also survived by his brother, Gene Korb (wife Kay) of Shawnee, Kansas, and many nieces and nephews. He was a proud father and papa who touched the lives of everyone around him. 

Joe’s life was marked by a strong sense of responsibility and always doing what was right. Whether as a father, husband, friend, or neighbor, he was unwaveringly there for others. He graduated from Bishop Miege High School in 1965 and continued his education at Donnelly College, completing an Associate’s Degree in 1967. His professional career began in 1967 with service in the U.S. Army as an air traffic controller, where he played a vital role in the safety of others. After his service in the Army, Joe continued his dedicated work as an air traffic controller until his retirement in 2008. He then spent the next years contributing to his community as a valued team member of O'Reilly Automotive. 

Joe’s legacy is one of compassion, integrity, and devotion to those he loved. He will be remembered for his unshakable character, his dedication to doing the right thing, and his lifelong service to others. 

A memorial service will be held at St. John Francis Regis Catholic Church at 8941 James A Reed Rd, Kansas City, Missouri, on February 22, 2025. The visitation will begin at 9 a.m. with the rosary prayer at 10:30 a.m. and a mass of Christian burial at 11:00 a.m. The burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery (7601 Blue Ridge Blvd, Raytown, Missouri). Reception will be at V’s Italiano Restaurant, 10819 E US Highway 40, Independence, MO 64055, at 1:00 p.m. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Kansas City Hospice House, KCHospice.org/Donate, 12000 Wornall Rd, Kansas City, Missouri 64145 or Good Samaritan Care Center, 403 W Main St, Cole Camp, MO 65325.