Joseph Andrew Legas' Obituary
Joseph (Joe) A. Legas of Omro, WI passed away on August 7, 2024, at the age of 88 with his loved ones near. When describing the kind of man he was, his friend Mary Jones offered these words as part of her tribute to him. “Joe loved life! He loved his Sharon, his children, his grandchildren, his greatgrands, his extended family and his friends. He loved his home on the water; he loved boating and fishing and partying! He loved critters, especially dogs! Joe was laid back and easy going but he called a spade a spade! He was very intelligent; he could fix anything, and he did. Joe told wonderful stories and kept his audiences enthralled. His humor was intoxicating, and his eyes would twinkle when he'd be in a mischievous mood. Joe was the kind of guy that would go the extra mile to be of help. He offered good advice, and he truly cared about others.”
Joe was born on April 6, 1936, in the town of Beaver. His family moved to Milwaukee when he was a boy, and he grew up there. He lived in East Troy for many years before he retired to The River in Omro. He spent time as butcher, restaurateur, mechanic, and elevator man. In his spare time, he cut wood (sold some to Da Crusher), ran food stands at Hales Corners and Cedarburg raceways (drove a few stock cars, too), dug sewer laterals, and built log homes.
He was a man of many talents. Joe loved to cook. Especially for other people. He could be found in the kitchen whipping up a batch of his chicken soup, sauerkraut & dumplings, or Canadian bacon. If you were asked ‘What do you want for breakfast?’ you should have always opted for his pancakes! He was never idle, loved to learn new things, and could hold a conversation with almost anyone on any topic. Joe has been referred to as a Human Google – you could ask him about anything! He was able to fix just about anything, and if he couldn’t it was obviously junk in the first place. He always carried a jar of Carmex and a jackknife. He liked to whittle a bit. He would often be heard singing “Skip a Rope” or “Mama, Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to be Cowboys” – two of his favorite songs. Joe had what seemed like a million great stories that he loved to tell.
The River was his Happy Place. Joe could often be found fishing in the not-so-secret Secret Spot, pulling water skiers expertly around Preacher’s Bend, cruising in the pontoon boat, or just enjoying ‘another lovely day on the river’ out on the porch.
Even though he was usually busy doing something, he always had time for his family and friends. Joe dealt with his kids’ shenanigans with a firm, but fair manner. He took people under his wing and was a mentor to many. He was a dispenser of sound advice and always ‘had your back’. He checked in with his uncles and aunties often and always wanted to make sure everyone was okay.
He went by many names. Sharon called him ‘Joseph!’ when he was being sassy. The kids refer to him as Patch, Pop, Father Dearest, Dad, and Grandpa Patch. And to most, he was just ‘Joe’ – a great guy.
Joe deeply loved and cherished his family. He is survived by his wife of almost 40 years, Sharon; The Kids – Joe (Jill), Cheryl (Steve), Steve (Rhoda), Laura (Kim), Steve (Penny), Kelly (Luis), and Bryan (Stormi); The Grands – Josh (Julie), John, Jayme (Scott), Jodi, Steven, Sofia, Camilo, Ocean, and Canyon; The Great Grands - Bella, Terry, Patty, Evan, Liam, and Hazel; and his loyal friends Florian & Sandra Palma and Davey Jensen, as well as his extended family of in-laws, cousins, nieces, and nephews and many, many friends. Joe will be happy to be reunited with his parents, Joe and Theresa; his siblings Teri, Donald, and Jeannie and his best pups Tiger and Irie along with many family and friends who have gone before him.
Joe’s family sincerely appreciates all the kind words and prayers that have been sent their way. He was a friend and mentor to many and will be truly missed.
Funeral services for Joe will be held in Fiss & Bills-Poklasny Funeral Home (865 S Westhaven Oshkosh) on Wednesday August 14, at 2:00 PM. Family and friends may call at the funeral home on Wednesday from 12:00 PM until the hour of services.
What’s your fondest memory of Joseph?
What’s a lesson you learned from Joseph?
Share a story where Joseph's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Joseph you’ll never forget.
How did Joseph make you smile?