Joseph Andrew Blanda, age 86, of Winter, surrounded by his family went to God and his heavenly home Saturday, September 30, 2023.

Joe was born February 9, 1937, in Ashland, WI, the son of Frank and Maggie (Brandis) Blanda, the youngest of seven children. He grew up in Cable and after graduating high school he joined the Air Force and was stationed at Offutt Air Force Base, where he met JoAnn. They were blessed to celebrate 65 years of marriage. Joe made his career as an auto mechanic, retiring from Mid-Plains Telephone Company, Middleton in 1997. He made his dream of living on the lake come true when retiring to Winter, WI. Joe was very active in the Knights of Columbus in Middleton and Ladysmith. He was an active member in the American Legion and proud to carry the American flag in the parade every 4th of July. Joe joined the Winter Lake Alliance and enjoyed helping with the Kids Fishing Tournament. He was a terrific Vegas Day dealer, all this before Alzheimer's. Joe was an active member of St. Peter's Catholic Church, doing whatever needed to be done. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, football, woodworking and spending time with his family and friends. Joe will be dearly missed by all.

He leaves behind his beloved wife JoAnn; their children Mike (Barb), Kathy & Theresa; and brother Andy. Joe was a proud Papa of four cherished grandchildren and one great grandson; many nephews & nieces.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers; three sisters; nine brothers-in-law; and five sisters-in-law.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, October 23, 2023, at St. Peter's Catholic Church. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church. Following the service, Military Honors will be accorded by Jensen-Hansen American Legion Post #394 and WACEK-Slattery American Legion Post #303. Interment will be in Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Spooner at a later date.

The family would like to express our heartfelt thanks to the Regional Hospice Team for their exceptional care.