Serving Gogebic, Iron and Ontonagon Counties
EXCELSIOR, Minn. - Joseph W. Justinak passed away on Jan. 16, 2025. A lifelong resident of Excelsior, Joe was the cherished son of Marc and Carrie and beloved brother to Anna and Grace.
Joe graduated from Minnetonka High School in 2021 as a National AP Scholar with distinction and spent a year volunteering with AmeriCorps, prior to attending Carthage College, aiding Habitat for Humanity, YMCA Camp Classen in Oklahoma, and Afghan refugee resettlement efforts.
An active and vibrant young man, Joe excelled in hockey, baseball and golf; played with Minnetonka youth hockey and baseball associations; and participated in Junior Gold hockey. He was deeply involved in his church, volunteering extensively and earning multiple Presidential Volunteer Service awards.
Joe had a passion for geography, nature and the outdoors, exploring 30 states, skiing, kayaking and camping with family and friends. His zest for learning and love for adventure left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
He is survived by his parents and sisters; grandparents, John Weinberger, Tim and Kathryn Fleury; aunts, uncles and many cousins. Joe will be profoundly missed.
A private family service will be held on Feb. 1 at St. Francis of Assisi in Fifield, Wisconsin. A burial and celebration of his life is planned for late June on Butternut Lake in Wisconsin.
Joe's legacy is one of kindness, gratitude and generosity, inspiring others to live with a heart of service and appreciation.