Joseph "Joe" Helle Jr., 74, of Cedar Rapids, died surrounded by his children, on Sunday, March 31, at St. Luke's Hospital.

Joe was born to Joseph Sr. and Ardella (Riesberg) on December 6, 1944 in Dyersville, Iowa.

Joe graduated from Garnavillo Community High School in 1963.  He married Peggy Tindell at St. Peter's Lutheran Church on December 26, 1967.  The majority of his working years was spent owning and operating his own business.

He loved spending time with his family, going to auctions, reading the newspaper and tending to the yard.  Joe was an avid sports fan having played basketball and baseball in his youth and later enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren's sporting events.  In retirement, he treasured the time spent in the company of his grandchildren.

Joe is survived by his children, Tracie (Steve) Helle Schmelzer, Bradley (Sue) Helle, Brent (Dori) Helle and Justin (Sarah) Helle; grandchildren Kohle, Peyton, Jayden, and Brooks Helle; sisters Wilma Mensen, Shirley (Leonard) Thein, Jo Ann (Jerry) Cox; brothers Louis (Betty) Helle, David (Leslie) Helle and Wayne (Kathy) Helle.

He most recently lost his wife of 51 years, Peggy Helle on January 25, 2019.  They were inseparable in life and now are happily reunited in eternal life. He is also preceded in death by his parents and brother in-law Dale Mensen.

Private services were held at Brosh Chapel, Cedar Rapids.  Memorials may be sent to Brent Helle and will be directed to the Fairfax EMS team.

You can show your support and share memories with Joe's family on his tribute wall at broshchapel.com.