Joseph Duane Kovacich died from a stroke on March 19, 2022 at home with his wife, Regan Eve, and their daughter, Andrea, beside him. He has laid down the Word (Bible) to be with the Word (Messiah).

Joe was born to Joseph and Theresa (Czapiga) Kovacich on Dec. 3, 1952 in Stambaugh, Mich., under the dash of a Ford. He married Regan Eve Trombley on Aug. 24, 1974 in Iron River, Mich. Joe graduated from West Iron County High School Class of 1971 and completed his BSME degree from MTU. He completed his requirements for Professional Engineer in 1985. He worked in the Wausau area for Drott, JI Case, Greenheck Fan, Wausau Metals, C Tech, and SSI, before starting his own company, Intelligent Design Engineering & Solutions, LLC.

Joe fiercely loved his daughters, Kara (Michael) Stewart, Joyce (Ricardo) Siqueira, and Andrea (Nathan) Kovacich and his grandchildren, Cayla Siqueira, Philip Siqueira, and Alexander (nicknamed Dude) Stewart. He is survived by his sisters, Carol Busakowski, Joann (Don) Sebo, and Beth Ross, and his brother, David Kovacich, many special nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Joe loved figuring out problems. He was a true Engineer. He was always ready to help. He enjoyed hunting and archery with the gang at Rib Mountain Bowmen’s Club. His greatest adventure was taking his family on a 43’ Ketch named NeverLand for several years around Florida and the Bahamas. It was an Awesome Adventure.

A celebration will be held April 1, 2022 at Sylvan Hill Park, 1329 Sylvan St., Wausau, Wis., 54403 from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. with stories at 3 p.m. A light luncheon will be provided for additional fellowship.

In lieu of flowers, please bring a written story or short note for a memory book for Joe’s young grandchildren, so they will get to know their Grandpa. Thank you!

Joe’s love and obedience for YHWH (YAHUAH) was first in his life which spilled over into a beautiful relationship with his family and all who knew him.

Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Homes & Crematory, 1302 Sixth St., Wausau, Wis., 54403 assisted with the cremation. www.petersonkraemer.com.