IRONWOOD TOWNSHIP,  Mich. – Joseph R. Pisco, 76, of N12592 Vanderhagen Road, Ironwood Township, died unexpectedly Saturday afternoon, April 25, 2026, at his residence.

He was born March 11, 1950, in Ironwood, son of the late Joseph J. and Bernadine (Sepanski) Pisco. Joe attended Roosevelt School in Ironwood Township and graduated from Luther L. Wright High School with the Class of 1968. He then proudly served his country in the U.S. Army for four years in Vietnam.

Following his honorable discharge, Joe returned to the area and was employed as a mechanic for the Gogebic County Road Commission where he retired from.

Joe had a lifelong interest in farming and his cows were his pride and joy. He also was an avid hunter.

On Sept. 14, 1974, Joe was united in marriage to the former Barbara J. Beckman, at the Wesley United Methodist Church in Ironwood.

Joe is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Barb; a daughter, Gina (Will) Maccani; two sons, Joseph G. (Tammy) and Jeff (Amanda); six grandchildren, Cody, Bryce, Parker, Madi, Addison and Jerzey; a sister, Sharon Johnson; a brother, Walter; and several nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, he was preceded by a brother, Michael and his wife, Cecilia.

Following Joe’s specific instructions, cremation will take place, his ashes will be placed in his lunch pail and there will be no services.

In lieu of floral offerings, memorials can be sent to his wife, Barb.

Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed online at lakesidememorialchapel.com.