Joseph Pugliese

Joseph Pugliese, 85, of Traverse City passed away Saturday, February 24, 2024, at his home. Joe was born one of 8 children on May 23, 1938, in Detroit to the late Vincenzo and Antionetta Pugliese. His father died when Joe was 9 and his mother died when he was 17. He lived in Detroit until 1974 until he and his family moved north. He married Marlene Yiirs and they had three wonderful children, Vince, Julie and Renee. Honorably, Joe served our Country in the United States Army in the Military Police force on two separate occasions. After his return from the service, he started his siding company in the Traverse City area. In his spare time, he enjoyed being outside. He loved nature and the beauty of God’s creation. He also really enjoyed a good game of Euchre with his buddies. On September 27, 2003, he married Elizabeth “Beth” Rott at the Peninsula Bible Church. He loved to take her on car rides. They really enjoyed driving to Elk Rapids and spending time at their special spot on the beach. Joe will be remembered for his good sense of humor, quick wit, and love for his family. Joe is survived by his beloved wife Beth of an accumulated 33 devoted years. She took wonderful care of Joe for his last three years while the dementia progressed at home where he wanted to be. He is also survived by his children Julie (Donald) Wichern, Renee (Jason) Klingelsmith, grandchildren, Tyler (Fairril) Klingelsmith, Megan Klingelsmith, Hannah (Nick) Swartz, Andy (Danielle) Wichern, Jeff (Amy) Wichern, great grandchildren Darcy, Aubrey, Reef, Lucy, Emery, his sister Mary Lavine and many other nieces, nephews and cousins. Joe is preceded in death by his parents, his son Vincent, his siblings, Andrew, Jenney, Cathryn, John, Michealla “Lena”, and Charlie. Visitation will be held on Monday, March 4, 2024, from 4-7pm at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. Funeral services with Military Honors will also be held at the funeral home at 11am on Tuesday, March 5, with a visitation beginning at 10am. Burial will take place at Oakwood Cemetery next to his son Vince. Memorial contributions may be directed to a charity of one’s choice. Kindly share thoughts and memories with his family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.

Joseph Pugliese

May 23, 1938 - February 24, 2024