February 14, 2023 –
Joseph Edmond Wabaunsee
September 18, 1957 – February 13, 2023
First Nation Prairie Band Potawatomi tribal member Joseph Edmond Wabaunsee passed away February 13th, 2023. He was born September 18th, 1957, to Evelyn and James Wabaunsee.
Joe was a man of many words, a person late to everything, a wild child at heart, and the best dinner guest to host. Although Joe would be late to dinner, he’d never failed to complement the cook as he ate every last bite and would say, “This is my favorite!” His big kid heart made him easily humbled with his gifted mind. Joe saw potential in everything. He was continuously invested in all sorts of projects his whole life. From cabinet woodwork to welding and car mechanics. Joe knew how to fix and build about anything and enjoyed adding his creative spins to every project.
Joe loved all people and would greet everyone with his classic bright smile and goofy, “Yellow,” before talking an ear off. 40 years of truck ride adventures to the parks, candy stores and feet tickles were provided by him. He cherished every moment raising his daughters, son, and grandkids with his wife Janis Wabaunsee. Nothing brought him more joy than being a dad and grandpa.
Joseph joins his daughter Anna Helena Wabaunsee in the afterlife. His warrior spirit will be remembered by his wife Janis Wabaunsee, daughters Alina, Alyse, and Angela Wabaunsee, his son Brett Wabaunsee and his grandchildren Lucian Sky Headly, Emunee Keesis Wabaunsee and Lanaa Li Wabaunsee.
Shkodansi. (Spirit of the Fire)
(Courtesy of Mueller’s Tri-Cities Funeral Home)