Joseph Thomas "Joe" Ruppe

IRONWOOD TOWNSHIP, Mich. - Joseph Thomas "Joe" Ruppe, 89, of Ironwood Township, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Feb. 15, 2026, in Duluth, Minnesota.

Born on April 17, 1936, in Ironwood, Joe was the firstborn son of Joseph S. and Katherine L. (Verbos) Ruppe. A devout Catholic throughout his life, he was a long-time member of Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church in Ironwood.

Joe's life was marked by perseverance, dedication to education and quiet service to his community. He graduated from St. Ambrose High School in Ironwood, and went on to earn his master's degree in education from the University of Wisconsin – Superior, after attending Gogebic Community College. He worked diligently to put himself through school and took great pride in that accomplishment.

Over the years, Joe held a variety of positions that reflected both his work ethic and his commitment to public service. His early career included roles with Atlas/United Van Lines, Eric Mining Company in Hoyt Lakes, Minnesota, White Pine Copper Accounting Department, Indianhead Truck Line and teaching positions at Hayward Community Schools and Superior Public Schools. He later served as guidance director at Eagle River High School and contributed significantly to youth and continuing education through the University of Wisconsin Extension Service. His career culminated with the Michigan State University Extension Service, where he focused on public policy and community development.

Joe also gave generously of his time outside of work. For 16 years, he volunteered as the Gogebic County Fair Manager – a role that reflected his deep connection to the local community. He held numerous leadership positions including president of the school board at Northwestern High School in Maple, Wisconsin, chairman of the board at Gogebic Community College and president of the Gogebic/Ontonagon Intermediate School District.

Throughout his life, Joe maintained active memberships in several professional and civic organizations including Phi Delta Kappa, Vilas County Teachers' Association, Superior Federation of Teachers, Wisconsin Education Association, American Federation of Teachers, Lions Club, Rotary Club and Ironwood Knights of Columbus Council 1396.

Despite these many accomplishments, Joe remained a private man who never sought recognition for his achievements. He found joy in simple pleasures – hunting, fishing, reading - and above all else took pride in supporting his family.

Joe is survived by his beloved wife of 69 years, April Marie (Nelson) Ruppe; their four children, Michael Thomas (Mildred), Barbara Ann (Sandy), Catherine Louise (Bill) and John Thomas (Charisse); six grandsons, Jeremiah, Allen, Drew, Brice, Cotter (Erin) and Hunter; a granddaughter, Alexys; a great-granddaughter, Maci; a sister, Kathleen Kaufman; and numerous dear nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Margaret Frigo; and two sons, Thomas and Stephen.

Joe will be remembered with love by all who knew him. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him, and may he rest in peace after a life well lived.

The Ruppe family is honoring his life in a private Mass of Christian Burial. The Rev. Brian C. Gerber, pastor of Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church in Ironwood, will be the celebrant. Also, in attendance will be members of the Pere Menard Assembly 471, Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus, who will serve as honor guard.

Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed online at lakesidememorialchapel.com.