Obituaries : Joseph "Papi Joe" Edward Blaha

Joseph "Papi Joe" Edward Blaha, Jr., born September 23, 1957, died November 9, 2024, at 67 years old from a short battle with cancer.

Joe is survived by his daughter Deidra McVay, granddaughter Shyanne Wiegel, and great-grandchildren Sutton and Frederick Wiegel. He is also survived by 3 brothers and 4 sisters: Jerry Day, Ellen Day, John "Tim" Blaha, Terri Taylor, Grant Blaha, Lolita "Linn" Blaha, and Connie Raines; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was superseded in death by his mother Lolita Fern Blaha, his father Joseph Edward Blaha, Sr. and his brother William Day.

Joe was born in Iowa City to Lolita and Joseph Sr. where he attended West High until the family of 11 moved to rural Marengo, after which Joe completed high school at Norway Community.

After high school, he joined the Army and learned to drive heavy trucks, which lead to a lifelong career ending at Chad Freeman Construction as a dump truck operator.

Joe had the most contagious laugh, and anyone who heard it couldn't help but smile. He could always be found sitting back with a cold beer, chatting with anyone who wanted to take the time to talk. He enjoyed the outdoors, riding his Harley, watching old Westerns, and spending time with family and friends.

Per Joe's final request, there will be no public funeral services of any kind. If anyone would like to contribute, Deidra has set up a Memorial Fund in honor of Joe. Checks can be sent to: Joe Blaha Memorial, PO Box 277, Norway, IA 52318; or Venmo donations can be made to: @JoeBlahaMemorial