Joe Kurkowski

Joe Kurkowski, Jr., 74, of Warden, Wash., passed away unexpectedly at his home Tuesday, Jan. 20. Born in Moses Lake, Wash., in 1951 to Joe and Betty Kurkowski.

Joe grew up in Warden and graduated from Warden High School in 1969. As an all-around athlete, he then attended Everett Community College on a football scholarship. 

In 1971, Joe met Patti, and they were married in 1974. Together, they welcomed their son, Kerry, in 1976, followed by their daughter, Stacie, in 1980. Throughout the years, Joe cherished his family deeply and found great joy in hunting, fishing, golfing and camping with friends and loved ones. Summers were often spent on trips filled with fun, laughter and shared memories. 

Joe began his career at Evergreen Implement in 1983 in the Parts Department. Through hard work and dedication, he rose to the role of sales manager, a position he held until his retirement in June 2018. His professional excellence earned him and Patti trips to such places as Jamaica, France, Monaco, Germany, Hawaii and the Las Vegas National Finals Rodeo. 

Joe was a proud member of the Sage Hills Golf Course and the Warden Lions Club, where he earned numerous honors, including the Newest Members Award and the club’s highest recognition, the Melvin Jones Fellowship. He also served his community through his work with the Warden City Council. 

Joe is survived by his wife of 51 years, Patti Kurkowski; his son, Kerry Kurkowski, wife Nicole, and their children, Kaylynn and Joey; and his daughter, Stacie White, husband Steve, and their daughter, Kylie. His sisters, Roxanne Clark and Ruth Dasch, also survive him.  

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Betty Kurkowski, his sister, Theresa, and his brothers-in-law, Mark Clark and Robert Dasch.  

Joe was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed. 

Please express your thoughts and memories for the family at https://bit.ly/JKURKOWSKI. Arrangements are under the care of Kayser's Chapel of Memories.