Joseph H. Puca, lovingly known to many as Joe, was born on June 29, 1953, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. His remarkable journey through life came to a peaceful end on June 15, 2026, in Franklin, Wisconsin, surrounded by the warmth and love of family and friends. Joe’s life was a testament to dedication, humility, generosity, and the power of storytelling, leaving behind a legacy that will forever resonate with all who knew him.

From a young age, Joe demonstrated a passion for service and excellence. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering from Parks College of Aeronautical Technology of Saint Louis University in St. Louis, Missouri. It was during his time at Parks that he entered ROTC and became a proud member of the Parks Guard Rifle Drill Team, setting the stage for a distinguished military career. Answering the call of duty, he entered active service immediately upon graduation, training as a fighter pilot in the United States Air Force. Joe served at Hahn Air Base in Germany, where he piloted the F-4E Phantom and earned the accolade of “best bomber in the squadron.” His dedication continued stateside as an instructor pilot flying the T-38B at Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico. Following his active duty, Joe’s commitment endured through his service with the Air National Guard; initially at Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Michigan flying the A-7, and ultimately with the Wisconsin Air National Guard in Madison where he flew the C-130 and supported operations during the Persian Gulf War.

Beyond the cockpit, Joe's spirit shone just as brightly. After active duty, he applied his expertise as an engineer at Northrup Grumman in Rolling Meadows, Illinois. But perhaps even more telling of Joe’s character was his profound support to his wife, Kathy, when she embarked on the rigorous journey through medical school. Joe became her steadfast chauffeur, household manager, and champion — a living example of love and dedication that speaks volumes about his generous heart.

Joe was not only a committed professional and a devoted husband, but also a man who was widely admired for his friendly and amiable nature. He was a hard worker who never hesitated to volunteer his time or talents to help others. Those who met Joe quickly learned he was a captivating storyteller, always ready with a great story that could both entertain and inspire, capturing the interest and affection of everyone around him.

Outside of his professional and military accomplishments, Joe's heart was devoted to serving others. He volunteered at Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin for over 20 years, finding his greatest joy working with children during the blood drives. Music was another of Joe’s passions. A man of faith and music, Joe found joy and pride in learning to play the bass guitar, serving on church worship teams in various communities, most notably at Church In The City in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Despite the formidable challenges of Alzheimer’s dementia that beset him in later years, Joe faced his journey with quiet dignity, weathering it all as a true officer and a gentleman. Although the disease took his words, it could never take his spirit. He always had a warm smile, thankful disposition, and a ready laugh for those who cared for him. His passing was peaceful, surrounded by those who loved him deeply—a poignant closing chapter to a life richly lived.

Joe is lovingly survived by his cherished wife, Kathy, sisters Helen Fawcett and Mary Behrendt, brother John Puca, sister-in-law Janet Thatcher, brother-in-law Dan D'Andrea, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and a wide circle of friends. He was preceded in death by his devoted parents, Leona and Joseph Q. Puca.

The family will receive friends and loved ones on June 30, 2026, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., with the prayer service beginning at 6:00 p.m., both held at Max A. Sass & Sons Funeral and Cremation Mission Hills Chapel, 8910 W. Drexel Avenue, Franklin, WI. A solemn burial service will follow on July 1, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Union Grove, WI.

To commemorate Joe’s life – his friendships, his love for music and worshiping the Lord, and lasting impact on his church family – a Celebration of Life service will be held on July 11, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Church In The City, 2648 N Hackett Ave, Milwaukee, WI.

Joe’s life was one of extraordinary dedication—a narrative of service, unwavering support, and soulful generosity that will long inspire all who had the privilege to know him. His memory endures, resplendent with the stories he so loved to share and the love he freely gave. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that monetary donations be made to either Church In The City, Lutheran Home Adult Day Care Services, or Clement J Zablocki VA Medical Center Department GPF 9074 (OT/PT/Speech).