Joseph W. Wilson

Joseph W. Wilson, age 84, of Appleton, Wisconsin, passed peacefully into eternal life on October 24, 2025.

Joe was born on July 5, 1941, in Lafayette, Louisiana, and was raised in Trenary, Michigan, as the only child of the late Jack and Ada (Le’Jeurne) Wilson. On July 23, 1960, he married his longtime friend, classmate, and the love of his life, Gloria (Joel) Wilson. Together, they lovingly raised four children.

Throughout their life together, Joe’s career took the family to several states, but they eventually returned to Wisconsin to be near family — which was always most important to them.

Joe was a devoted husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. He cherished family picnics, gatherings with loved ones, playing cards and games, and sharing laughter and good times. Holidays and weekends spent together created countless memories that will forever remain treasures in our hearts.

An outdoorsman at heart, Joe loved spending time in the woods hunting and at deer camp. He also enjoyed the camaraderie of the “Brother-in-Laws Lunch Club,” where many stories and laughs were shared.

Joe is survived by his children: Ron (Jackie) Wilson, Rick (Kelly) Wilson, and Paula Trobridge (special friend Gary Turchan). He is further survived by nine grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, and many other dear family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gloria (Joel) Wilson; son Mike (Tracy) Wilson; son-in-law Craig Trobridge; granddaughter Katie Van Schyndel; and siblings-in-law Lawrence and Joyce Joel, James Joel, Helen Decker, and Bev Denman.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at Village Bowl, N86W18330 Main Street, Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin. Visitation with family will take place from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., followed by a time to share special memories from 3:00 p.m to 3:30 p.m., and a meal from 3:30 p.m to 5:00 p.m.

Dad, you have blessed us in so many ways. Know that we love you deeply and will forever carry you in our hearts and memories. May you ride on angels’ wings until we meet again. You will be greatly missed.

The family is grateful for the kindness and love that the Compassus hospice’s workers; Marissa RN, Tiffany LPN and Savanna the awesome caregiver, showed to our dad during their visits.