Joseph James Probst, 61, Appleton, entered eternal life peacefully on Friday, January 6, 2023. He was born March 20, 1961, to the late Eugene and Virginia (Wollerman) Probst. Joe was a 1979 graduate of Appleton West High School, where he excelled as a member of the swim team. He was united in marriage to Ann Griffiths on April 29, 1983, at St. John Lutheran Church in the Town of Center, and the couple raised two children.
Joe grew up on his parents' dairy farm and he farmed until he was in his early 20s. He later worked for Appleton Awning Shop and then worked in the paper industry for 23 years where he worked his way up to becoming a supervisor. Joe was a member of St. John Lutheran Church in the Town of Center; his faith was very important to him and gave him great comfort. He also served as a volunteer firefighter for the Town of Center for many years.
Joe was hard working and mechanically inclined; he was always willing to help his family and friends. In his spare time Joe enjoyed tending to his garden and yard. He passed his skills and interests onto his children.
He is survived by his wife, Ann Probst, Appleton; two children: Jacob Probst, Appleton; and Ben Probst, Appleton; siblings: Richard (Teresa) Probst, DeSoto, TX; Mary Jo (Ernie) Rodina, Appleton; John (Jan) Probst, Menasha; Joan Probst, Appleton; and Ann Probst, Freedom; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Thomas (Cheryl) Griffiths, Kronenwetter; Steven (Beth) Griffiths, Bluffton, SC; and Jon (Cari) Griffiths, Appleton; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by his father-in-law and mother-in-law: Robert and Betty Griffiths; two brothers: Michael Probst and Paul Probst.
Visitation will take place at St. John Lutheran Church, N3505 WI-47, Appleton (Town of Center), on Thursday, January 12, 2023, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services at 11:00 a.m., Pastor Matthew Schoell officiating. Burial will take place at a later date at Highland Memorial Park in Appleton.
In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established.
The family extends a special thanks to ThedaCare at Home Hospice and Cherry Meadows Hospice for their compassionate care.
Online condolences may be expressed to Joe's family at www.muehlboettcher.com