Joseph David Vohwinkle, age 71, of Hale, MI., passed away peacefully at his home on November 2, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on January 18, 1954, in Detroit, MI., to the late George and Reta (Donaghey) Vohwinkle.
Joe’s family moved several times when he was a child, but he eventually settled in the Hale area. Joe completed high school and then 2 years of college. His passion was farming, and he spent his adult life as a self-employed dairy and crop farmer. Joe also took on leadership roles in the farming community with roles in 4H, DHIA (Dairy Herd Improvement Association), and the Cloverland Co-Operative Board, which assisted local farmers transport milk. At the annual Iosco County Fair, he was the superintendent of speed office (horse harness racing). Joe’s love of farming and the farm animals never waned. Joe was a man of honor and always believed a person’s word was as good as a handshake.
Joe married his soulmate and love of his life, Lana (Ruckle) Vohwinkle in May of 1975. They had three children and 50 years together. At the family home, Joe loved watching sports and NASCAR. He had a great sense of humor and loved talking to people. He was always kindhearted and willing to help anyone. Most importantly, he loved his family, children, and grandchildren.
Joe is survived by his wife, Lana; children, Jace (Kelli) Vohwinkle of Whittemore, Jolanda (Scott) Vohwinkle of Sterling, Heidi Vohwinkle of Dunedin, FL.; brother, Craig (Geri) Vohwinkle of Lake Ann, MI.; sister, Kim (Robert) Smith of Cedar, MI.; grandchildren, Talan Kerszykowski, Carson, Josie, and Gage Vohwinkle, and many nieces and nephews.
Joe is preceded in death by his parents; father-in-law, Robert Ruckle, and beloved sister-in-law, Bridget Hollenbeck.
Family will hold services for Joe on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at Hale Methodist Church. Visitation 10:00 – 11:00. Funeral 11:00. Per Joe’s wishes, cremation will take place.
