Harold Kuerth

Between the years of 1979-81 Joe served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Busan, South Korea and Chicago, Illinois. He served diligently, sharing the message of Jesus Christ. He developed a lifelong love for all things Korean, especially the food!

Early on Joe had many careers, including roofing with his father, laying pipe in oil fields, and automotive and insurance sales. Joe found his calling in prosthetics when one of his young children became an amputee. He believed he could improve their design and became a trailblazer in the field.

Joe married his sweetheart, Diana, in the Washington, D.C. Temple on Oct. 16, 1981. Joe and Diana were inseparable; their love was a sight to behold. Together they had six children. He was a devoted father and spent countless hours encouraging and supporting his children. Whether it was a soccer game, marching band competition, art show, or choir concert he was their biggest fan, always cheering them on.

‘Joe Cool’ is remembered for his sense of humor. He loved cracking Dad jokes, even in the final moments of life. (What kind of soup isn’t a soup? A tomato!) He had a great gift for storytelling, often regaling his family with thrilling tales. He spent his life in service, a true ‘give you the shirt off his own back’ type of man, quietly and without ever seeking recognition. Many people were touched by his courage and kindness; He never allowed his harrowing battle with cancer and kidney failure to stop him.

Joe is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Diana, his brother Mark, sisters Shelly and Katie, his children, Joseph, Elizabeth, Michael (Camilla), Sarah Jane (Jaden), Jonathan, and Emily, and beloved 13 grandchildren. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Max, and his sister Cheryl.

The funeral service will be held on Friday, June 26, at 1 p.m. at 411 Long Rapids Plaza, Alpena, with dinner to follow. McWilliams Funeral Home has assisted the family with arrangements.