Joseph Howell Retherford

Joseph Howell Retherford, 52, passed away unexpectedly at home on March 26, 2026. 

Born on July 9, 1973, in Mariemont, Ohio, Joe was the beloved son of the late Joseph Retherford and his surviving mother, June (Brown) Retherford. He was the loving husband of Aimee Vogt Retherford, devoted father to Alexis and Kayleigh Retherford, and proud stepfather to Morgan Dickhaus (Tyler Ollier) and Ben Dickhaus (Rachael Hamad).

A proud graduate of Norwood High School, Joe’s love for hard work and adventure began early. As a boy, he enjoyed mowing lawns and spending time at Lake Lorelei, where he could often be found riding his jet skis. He had a passion for car audio, dirt-bike riding with his cousins, and racing R/C cars—earning trophies he was proud to display. His all-time favorite passion was his love of golf. His many trips to Myrtle Beach with his best friend Roger were among the highlights of his life, where he found both peace and joy on the course. Whether it was an early morning tee time or a full day spent chasing the perfect round, Joe cherished every moment. He took pride in the game—not just in improving his skills, but in the camaraderie, laughter, and friendly competition it brought. Golf wasn’t just a hobby to Joe; it was a lifelong passion that reflected his patience, dedication, and love for the simple pleasures shared with those closest to him.

Joe eventually joined his father at the family business, Action Mechanical Repair, where his skill and work ethic truly shined. Exceptionally intelligent and endlessly creative, Joe’s craftsmanship was unmatched. Whether welding, fabricating, or improving his home, he brought precision and pride to everything he did. His customers and community held him in the highest regard—not only for his talent but for his kindness and integrity.

Joe never met a stranger. He had an effortless way of making people feel seen and valued, always putting others’ needs before his own. His friendships ran deep, and he built a circle of people who became family. He loved adventure and was always planning his next trip or concert, often including family and friends in every experience.

Fate brought Joe and Aimee together on March 10, 2022. From their very first conversation that lasted until closing time, they knew they had found something special. They married on March 21, 2025, and together built a life of endless laughter, travel, and memory-making—attending concerts, cheering for the Bengals, and savoring every moment with the people they loved. Joe found his greatest joy in making Aimee smile, filling each day with humor, warmth, and affection.

He is survived by his children Alexis and Kayleigh Retherford, stepchildren Morgan (Tyler Ollier) and Ben (Rachael Hamad) Dickhaus, mother June Brown Retherford, mother-in-law Judy Vogt, brother Greg Cox (Brooke), sister and brother-in-law Jennifer and Doug Rensing, nephews Kyle Cox, Drew Rensing (Alicia), Mitchell Rensing (Nicole Mack), Luke Rensing, and nieces Abby Cox and Maleah Rensing.

Instead of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to American Heart Association, 5211 Madison Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45227 or Breakthrough Type 1 Diabetes (formerly JDRF), 8035 Hosbrook Rd Suite 210, Cincinnati, OH 45236.

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

Visitation will be held on Friday, April 3, at Middendorf Funeral Home (3312 Madison Pike, Fort Wright, KY 41011) from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 1:00 p.m.Burial will take place at Mother of God Cemetery. Immediately following the service, friends and family are invited to a Celebration of Life. Location TBD.