Joseph Anthony Winiarski

Joseph Anthony Winiarski, affectionately known as Joe, passed away peacefully at home on May 14, 2025, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, surrounded by his loving wife Jeanne, his son John (Elizabeth), brother Ed and sister-in-law Ann. Joe was 70 years old at the time of his passing.

Joe dedicated 35 years of his life to the City of Milwaukee, where he utilized his talents to design many of the city’s beautiful streets. After a fulfilling career, he enjoyed a retirement that spanned 15 years. An engaging personality, Joe had an innate ability to connect with people, striking up conversations effortlessly and bringing laughter into the lives of those around him with his well-known sense of humor and unwavering loyalty. He truly cherished friendships and loved to share a laugh with others.

In his personal life, Joe was a devoted family man who took immense pride in being a loving father to his son John. They shared a bond grounded in genuine friendship, attending football, basketball, and baseball games together, exploring museums, watching movies, and engaging in a myriad of activities that brought them closer. Joe instilled a love for motorcycling in John, teaching him to ride as he proudly owned eight Harley-Davidson motorcycles, including his beloved Trike. Wherever Joe traveled he made a point at visiting the Harley dealerships, checking out their selection of motorcycles, picking up a t-shirt and talking with the dealer staff. Joe, Jeanne and John enjoyed traveling together. From Alaska, Canada, Cozumel, Gettysburg Pennsylvania, Washington D.C., Florida, Denver, South Dakota, and many trips to Las Vegas Nevada to run a few races and play a few poker machines. But their most beloved vacation spot was Hawaii. They visited multiple times exploring the Big Island of Hawaii, Oahu, Maui and Kauai. They enjoyed the many beautiful sunsets, snorkeling with Manta Rays at night, star gazing, riding bikes down Mount Haleakala, drinking the world's best Kona coffee and more. 

Joe's passions extended beyond family. He had an incredible, unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. He shared his faith and was devoted to the Lord. He never questioned God’s plan and gave comfort to his friends and family through his strength. In addition to his faith, Joe was an avid runner, completing 53 marathons throughout his life and participating in numerous other races. He found joy traveling to various cities for marathons, particularly enjoying the Twin Cities, Duluth, and Boston. His love of travel was apparent, as he explored the United States with his family. A true history enthusiast, he had a special interest in touring Civil War battlefields and was always eager to learn and share his knowledge.

He will be lovingly remembered by his wife Jeanne, with whom he shared 40 wonderful, adventure-filled years, his son John and John’s fiancée Elizabeth, his brother Ed and sister-in-law Ann, his cousin Paul and brother Bob. Joe is also survived by his special nieces Sarah (Matt), Elisabeth (Blake), Rebekah (Jon) and nephews Scott (Jenny), Jeff (Jenna), and Luke (Amber), and many other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, John and Gertrude Winiarski, and brothers Rev. James J. Winiarski and Tom Winiarski, as well as his sister-in-law Raette Winiarski and nephew Kevin Winiarski.

Joe was lovingly cared for by Dr. Mandana Kamgar and her entire team at Froedtert Hospital Cancer Center.  We are forever grateful for the time and quality of life Joe was able to have because of their care. A special thank you to all of the nurses in the Day hospital as well for their care throughout his treatment. We also thank Horizon Hospice, especially nurse Karen, for their compassion and support which made it possible for Joe to be at home.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during visitation at St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church in Franklin, Wisconsin, on May 31, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 10:45 AM. A Mass celebrating Joe's life will follow at 11:00 AM, concluding at 12:00 PM at the same location.

Joe Winiarski leaves a rich legacy of love, laughter, and passion for life. He will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers, donations in honor of Joe can be made to St. Thomas More High School, 2601 E. Morgan Ave., Milwaukee, WI  53207 or St. Martin of Tours Parish 7963 S. 116th St., Franklin, WI  53132.