Joseph "Joe" Barthole

Joseph "Joe" James Barthole passed away on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, in Sioux City, IA, at the age of 65. Born on December 17, 1960, Joe was the son of the late Jerald "Jerry" James and Janice Jane (Janssen) Barthole.

Joe’s early years were deeply rooted in the rural landscapes between Kingsley and Pierson, IA, where he was raised on a family farm. He attended Kingsley-Pierson Schools, graduating with the Class of 1979. During his high school years, Joe distinguished himself in athletics, achieving recognition as a wrestling state finalist and excelling in football. His enthusiasm for sports remained a lifelong passion.

Beginning his career beside his father on the family farm, Joe soon found his niche as an UPS driver, a role he held for nearly two decades. Later, he embarked upon a new path as an Insurance Sales Representative with Banker's Life, a position that perfectly matched his outgoing nature. Joe never met a stranger and was known for his genuine warmth and forging friendships wherever he went. His kind-hearted spirit and constant good humor brought smiles to many faces throughout his life.

Family was the true cornerstone of Joe’s world, and he cherished his role as a husband, father and grandfather with unwavering devotion. On November 26, 1982, he married Melinda Benson, with whom he shared the joy of raising three sons: Brady, Cody, and Dustin. Although their marriage ended in 2003, Joe’s commitment to his children remained steadfast. On December 31, 2005, Joe was united in marriage to Lisa, embracing her daughter Kristen as part of their family circle. Joe’s role as “Papa” was a source of immense joy and pride; he treasured time spent with his grandchildren.

Joe enjoyed boating at Lake Okoboji and was an avid fan of the Green Bay Packers and Iowa Hawkeyes, reflecting his lifelong love of sports. He loved a good game of Euchre with the boys when they all got together. He also found great fulfillment in coaching his sons’ baseball teams, and later cheering on his grandchildren at their sporting events.

Joe is lovingly remembered by his wife Lisa; his sons and grandchildren: Brady (Sarah) and their sons: Conner and Hudson, Cody (Erica) and their children: McKenzie and Cody Jr., and Dustin "Boomer" (Katrina); and his daughter Kristen Covey. He is also survived by his siblings Jerri Jean (Chuck) Hardie, Janet (Tim) Schenzel, Julie (Arlen) Seablom, and Jeff (Jenny) Barthole, as well as several nieces and nephews who hold his memory dear.

Joe's life was one marked by kindness, strength, and a contagious zest for life. True to his heartfelt nature, Joe would want us to remember him with his famous words: "Did someone say JUAN more?"

A Celebration of Life for Joe will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 2 to 5 p.m. at The Wheelhouse Bar and Grill in Sioux City.