Joseph Peter Bohlen, age 77, of Sussex, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on the morning of Wednesday, April 23, 2026. He was born November 10, 1948, at St. Mary's Hospital in West Bend, Wisconsin, to Edward and Mary (Loichinger) Bohlen. One of seven living children, he was also preceded by an infant sibling lost at birth. On March 15th,1975, Joseph married Karen (White), his wife of fifty-one years. Together they raised their cherished daughter, Michelle, known affectionately to her father as "Weetie".  Joseph also welcomed his nephews and niece, Alex and Michael, and Maria and stepson Jerry into his home, and acted as a faithful and dependable presence during their formative years, and had an especially close bond with Alex.

Joseph poured himself into many years of work at Evinrude and Ball Corporation. He took pride in a job done well and in providing for those he loved.

Away from work, Joseph found his deepest joy outdoors, tending the yard, planting gardens, and managing orchards with a patient, attentive hand. An avid photographer and many of his photographs remain treasured among family and although photo of him may be sparse his presence is felt in the images he captured. He had an enduring love of classic films and would bring his projector to family gatherings, setting up reel-to-reel movie nights still fondly remembered.

Those who knew him best will remember Joseph as quiet, gentle of spirit, and selflessly generous, with a subtle sense of humor reserved for those nearest and dearest to him.

Joseph was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Mary Bohlen; his aunt, Olga Bohlen; his sister, Mary (Bohlen) Sciano, and her husband, Carl Sciano; his many beloved Granddogs. He is survived by his devoted wife, Karen; his daughter, Michelle; his nephew Alex (Nicole); His stepson jerry (glenda); his brother Edward Bohlen and his wife Kathy, his brother Paul Bohlen; his brother Mark Bohlen and his wife Pat (Beaudry); his sister Therese and her husband James Gronemeyer; and his sister Anne White. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, friends and extended family.

Visitation on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at St. Gabriel Catholic Church, 1200 St. Gabriel Way in Hubertus from 10AM until time of the Mass of Christian Burial at 12NOON, followed by burial at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Allenton, WI.