Joseph Rice Obituary
Born on August 25, 1963 in Wayne, Michigan, he was the son of Joseph and Janet (Hobbs) Rice.
He was the owner of Rice Roofing for over 28 years.
Joey was a 1981 Graduate of Huron High School in New Boston. He was a lover of all sports, but he excelled in football, wrestling and baseball. He was a high school state champion in wrestling in 1980. He moved on to Saginaw Valley where he received a full ride scholarship for football. He was a 4 year starting defensive tackle where he became an All American. After graduating from Saginaw Valley, he moved on to Wayne State University where he graduated with a Bachelor Degree in Education. He then moved on to coach wrestling and football at Grosse Pointe North High School and then Clawson High School. He loved to work and he also enjoyed his free time. He will be remembered by many of the students he coached over the years.
Joey was preceded in death by his father, Joseph A. Rice, Earl Schmidt, grandparents, William (Norma) Hobbs and Lawrence (Lorraine) Rice.
He is survived by his mother, Janet Rice, the love of his life, Krysten Alexander, sisters, Joy (Phil) Leone, Jill (Paul) Nagy, nephews and nieces, Joshua (Sarah) Rutkowski, Jordan (Haley) Rutkowski, Jessica (Nick) Romine, Janelle (Jake) Nagy, Anthony Leone, Alexis (Coleman) Fierst, great nieces and nephews, Zoey, River, June and Peyton.
At Joey's request, a private family funeral will be held.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joseph A. Rice Jr., please visit our floral store.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
5 Entries
KRYSTEN ALEXANDER
December 28, 2025
I WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU
Christine Glasper
December 22, 2025
Sending Much love from everyone on Sylan Lake! Ya left us too soon Big Joe! Ariella loved dancing and yelling across the water to you! Theo loved honking the horn on your boat! We will miss your spirit and presence. Sending love to Krys too, so sorry for your loss! ~ Christine and Curtis Glasper
Patrick Schultz
December 16, 2025
Joe Rice is the name that has always stuck with me , as a freshman learning how to play football, he always challenged us to be better than he was and honestly none of us were. Joe taught us to never give up never quit he would scream it in our faces, those are words I've held on my whole life, You just don't forget , it pains me to see his picture and no he's gone even though I haven't seen Joe in many years . Hold the gates open Joe we'll all be there soon enough Peace and prayers for you and your family
1983 & 1984
December 15, 2025
Joe was a huge part of what made us successful and we are forever grateful! We love you big Fella and thank you for the memories.
1983 & 1984
Saginaw Valley Football Teams
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Rusty Mandle
December 15, 2025
Even though I havent see Joe in many years, the impact he had on his teammates and myself at SVSU was immeasurable. Joe was a force of nature on the football field and a gentle giant off it. I pray for strength for his family and friends. I pray that Joe finds peace with our God. His impact and memories will live on in all of us they were fortunate to know him.
Rusty Mandle
SVSU 83
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