Joseph W. Mariage

Joseph W. Mariage, age 93, of Rapid City, passed away on Thursday, November 13, 2025 with family by his side. Joe was born and raised in Rapid City, Michigan, the oldest son of George and Gretchen Mariage, who owned and operated the GEM grocery. A lifelong learner, he was a proud member of the first graduating class of Northwestern Michigan University—an achievement he carried with pride throughout his life. He went on to earn both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Michigan State University. Joe spent two years in the U.S. Army, where he formed close friendships and remembered his service through the stories of camaraderie, humor, and meaningful connections. A dedicated and passionate educator, Joe believed deeply in the power of education to change lives. After beginning his teaching career in Williamston, Michigan, he spent the majority of his years with the Lansing School District. There, he created a highly successful Legislative Intern Program for high school students, opening doors for countless young people to explore government, leadership, and their own potential. He was adored throughout the district for his friendly smile, heartfelt encouragement, and unwavering care for students and colleagues alike. Joe was equally devoted to his family. He faithfully supported his children in all their school activities and adventures. In 1971, he and his wife, Norma, pursued a dream of teaching overseas, taking the family to England for a year while he studied the British school system. During that sabbatical, they traveled to thirteen countries across Europe—an experience that became one of the most cherished chapters of their life together. After retiring, Joe and Norma returned to Rapid City and settled into their beloved “treehouse” cabin in their “Our Woods” forest. They enjoyed cross-country skiing and frequent trips to the U.P., where Joe loved watching Great Lakes freighters and admiring the trees he held so dear. As dedicated stewards of Seven Bridges, they gave generously to the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, helping preserve the landscapes Joe cherished. Above all, Joe was a storyteller, a teacher, and a gentle guide. Those who learned from him—whether in a classroom, at home, or in a simple conversation—were blessed by his wisdom, humor, and patience. He will be remembered for his loving and welcoming spirit, and for the joyful, playful nature he shared with all who knew him. Joe, “Grandpa”, “Papa” will be dearly missed by his wife of 67 years, Norma Jean Mariage; children, Dirk (Leslie) Mariage, David (Rebecca) Mariage, Lisa (Duke) Rosendahl: grandchildren, Lindsay, Alissa (John), Jaime (Kent), Brittan (Jason), Bryson, Adriana (Ryan), Keagan, Providence, Monroe; great grandchildren, Graham, Grayson; sister, Gloria Cox; brother, Tracy (Sandra) Mariage; brother-in-law, Neil Lee; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, George & Gretchen (Robinson) Mariage; sisters, Virginia Lee, Sally (Glenn) Vedder; brother, George Mariage II; and brother-in-law, Ron Cox. A Celebration of Life in honor of Joe, will be held from 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM on Wednesday, November 26, 2025 at the Clearwater Township Hall, 5440 River St. NW, Rapid City, MI. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy (GTRLC). To leave a message for the family, please visit www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.

Joseph W. Mariage

February 1, 1932 - November 13, 2025