Joseph W. Vreeke, age 65, of Manitowoc, passed away unexpectedly at home, April 5, 2024.

Joe was born December 19, 1958, in Manitowoc to the late James and Carmel (Salutz) Vreeke. He graduated from Lincoln High School and went on to work for Anheuser-Busch where he found his love for welding. He then graduated from Lakeshore Technical College and was a welder for Manitowoc Cranes. He was proud to serve as President of the Local 443 Boilermakers Union for a number of years. Joe married Susan Jane Schwantes in January of 1991 and they recently celebrated 33 years of marriage. If you were ever looking for Joe, you'd likely find him putzing in his garage, snowmobiling, motorcycling, boating, or just tinkering on everything – a hobby that earned him the title "Master Tinkerer." He could fix anything, even if he had to use a little duct tape. Joe would give anything to anyone who needed it and will be remembered for his big smile and having the biggest, most caring heart. He also loved spending time with his black lab, Dierks. They shared countless adventures together and wherever Joe went, Dierks wasn't far behind.

He is survived by his wife Sue Vreeke; three children: Michael (Angela) Vreeke, Shawno; Jessica (Jay) Beranek, Sun Prairie; Callie Vreeke, Oregon, WI; grandchildren: Zane Vreeke; Chloe Beranek; grandkitty: Gizmo Vreeke; four siblings: James (Zenaida) Vreeke, NC; Judy Vreeke, WI; John (Tracy) Vreeke, WI; Jackie (Jay) White, WI; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Michael Schwantes (Juan Tapia); Patti (Jeff) Peterson; Mary (Mike) Lehn; Connie (Dave) Sura; Bobbi (Dale) Fuller. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Joe was preceded in death by his parents.

Cremation has occurred at the Harrigan Parkside Crematory and Chapel. A Celebration of Life will be held at Knox's Silver Valley, 1222 S. Alverno Road, Manitowoc, on Sunday, April 28, 2024, from 12:00pm until 6:00pm with a lunch served at 1:00pm.

Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com

The family would like to extend a sincere thank you to the Manitowoc County Sheriff's Department, Manitowoc Fire and Rescue Med Unit 4, and Branch First Responders for their compassion and lifesaving efforts.

The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, North 11th and St. Clair streets, Manitowoc is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.