Joseph J. Schleis

Joseph J. Schleis, age 64, a lifelong resident of Manitowoc, entered eternal life on Monday, February 20, 2023.

Joe was born February 18, 1959, son of the late Norbert and Dorothy (Staudinger) Schleis. He graduated from Lincoln High School in 1977. Joe began working at Eastman / Parker-Hanafin after graduation and retired from there in 2018. In his retirement, Joe found the job he loved and was meant to do, working at Broadway, where he could travel and meet new people. He made many lasting friendships along the way. He enjoyed playing football, basketball, and baseball in High school. He later played softball for The Spot Bar for many years. Joe stayed close to football working the chain gang for Lincoln every home game for the last 46 years. He was an avid walker and recently developed an interest in model trains, although nothing could compare to the love he had for his family.

On January 7, 1978, he married his ex-wife, Debra (Popp) Keil and they had three children: Kiley (Dean) Ouradnik, Tyler (Bre) Schleis, Zach Schleis; grandchildren: Devon Kolbeck, Bryce Kolbeck, Keshaun McAllister, Kohlton Siemers, Kasen Schleis, and Marley Schleis. Joe found love again and on August 23, 2013 married Susan Wachowski and grew his family, stepchildren: Kurt (Jolene) Scherer, Nic Wachowski, and Michele Wachowski; step grandchildren: Devin, Kameron, Karson, and Karter.

Joe leaves behind a sister: Beverly (David) Trost; a brother: James (Ann) Schleis, along with nieces, nephews, and special friends Sarina Kay and Brian Cherney. He was preceded in death by his parents: Norbert and Dorothy; his wife: Sue Schleis; and one grandson: Kaden Kolbeck.

A Memorial Service will be held at 7:30 PM, on Friday, February 24, 2023, at the Reinbold & Pfeffer Family Funeral Home, 818 State St., Manitowoc with Deac. Alan Boeldt officiating. Friends and family may call at the funeral home from 4:00 PM until the time of services at 7:30 PM.

The Lakeshore Family Funeral Homes, Reinbold & Pfeffer Family Funeral Home, Manitowoc location is assisting the family. Online condolences may be expressed by visiting: www.lakeshorefamilyfuneralhomes.com

Joe had a quick wit, always found the humor in life, and loved to laugh. He was generous, and forgiving, and he will be deeply missed.

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