Joe was the beloved husband of Nancy (Lovell) O'Shea, whom he married in June 1974. Together, they shared more than five decades of treasured memories.
Joe proudly served his country in the United States Army Special Forces (Green Beret). He was admired for his patriotism, his dedication to serving others, and the strength of character he carried with him long after his military service ended.
Joe obtained his degree in horticulture from MSU. He was a gifted horticulturist with an extraordinary green thumb. Joe found great joy in cultivating gardens and helping plants thrive. He loved sharing his knowledge with family, friends, and fellow gardeners, always eager to offer a helpful tip or encourage someone to try something new. His curiosity extended well beyond the garden. Joe had a genuine love of learning. He was always ready to share an interesting fact, a historical tidbit, or something fascinating he had recently discovered.
His faith was a guiding force throughout his life, providing him with strength and hope. Joe had a good memory and could share many stories. He had a quick wit, infectious sense of humor, and genuine kindness. Joe had a special gift for turning ordinary conversations into memorable moments.
Joe was a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews, all of whom held a special place in his heart. He treasured his family and the time he spent with them, creating countless cherished memories that will live on for generations.
Joe leaves behind a lasting legacy of service, generosity, curiosity, humor, and love. Like the gardens he so lovingly tended, the kindness he planted in the lives of others will continue to grow and flourish.
Joe is survived by his wife, Nancy O’Shea, siblings James Jr. (Jay) (Maureen) O’Shea, Francis (Donna) O’Shea, sisters-in-law Dianne O’Shea (Roger) Herpolsheimer and Diane O’Shea, Antoinette (Jim) Zyble, and Cynthia Burt. He has many treasured nieces and nephews living throughout the U.S. He was predeceased by his parents James and Florence O’Shea, siblings Martin O’Shea and Patrick “Danny” O’Shea, and brother-in-law Gordon Burt.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, October 10, 2026, 11 am (with visitation one hour prior) at Central United Methodist Church, 215 N. Capitol Ave, Lansing, MI 48933. PLEASE WEAR COLORFUL CLOTHING TO THE SERVICE!
Luncheon to follow service at the church.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Joe can be made to Central United Methodist Church 215 N. Capitol Ave., Lansing MI 48933 (517-485-9477)
A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, September 18, 2026, 11 am with visitation one hour prior at Holy Family Parish, St. Elizabeth Catholic Church, 6785 Marlette St., Marlette MI. PLEASE WEAR COLORFUL CLOTHING TO THE SERVICE!
Luncheon to follow service at the church.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Joe to The Catholic Diocese of Saginaw, 5800 Weiss St., Saginaw, MI 48603 (989-797-6679). Specifically, the funds are to be used for the priest retirement fund.
