Joseph James Duff

Joe lost his 8 year fight with cancer on November 17, dying peacefully in his home.

Joseph J. Duff was born to Bob and Sophie (Ozechowski) on August 22, 1947 in Winona, MN. He graduated from Cotter High School in 1966. On October 28, 1967 he married Connie Carpenter, his high school sweetheart. Joe served his country in the Minnesota National Guard from 1966 -1972. Joe's entire career was spent in the ready-mix concrete business and he retired in 2013 after 47 years of employment at Modern Ready Mix. Joe had the pleasure of loving his work and he was saddened when he retired due to his illness.

Survived by: his wife of 49 years, Connie, son Robert, Winona, sister Sandra (Larry) Arko, Colorado, sister-in-law and brother-in-law Donnis (Don) Buchan, LaCrescent. He is also survived by nieces and nephews and Colleen McComb who he thought of as his Granddaughter. He was preceded in death by his parents and Step-father, Larry Cada. Joe also had many friends and business associates and he wanted them to be sure they knew they all meant the world to him.

Joe started his love of the Outdoors at an early age, running his own commercial set lines at the age of 10. He has been a hunter, trapper and trap collector, a ginseng hunter and ginseng buyer and above all - a lifelong fisherman. He always had an enthusiastic audience for his many "tall tales". Special thanks to all of Joe's friends who kept him involved in his hunting and fishing during his illness. He always came home so happy and renewed after a day with the "guys".

Riding in their 1968 Chevy convertible with Connie was a favorite pastime. They loved touring the bluffs of Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa, discovering new restaurants and sights along the way. Joe and Connie enjoyed antiquing and visited many antique shops, flea markets and garage sales. They were blessed to travel to Europe twice and especially loved beautiful Switzerland.

Joe was an excellent cook and enjoyed cooking for family and friends. He was frequently known to be the "life of the party".

A Celebration of Joe's Life will be held from 3-7PM Monday, November 21 with a short memorial service at 4 PM at the Winona American Legion. Per Joe's wishes, jeans and camouflaged clothing attire is encouraged. Private graveside services will be held at a later date at Pickwick Cemetery. Memorials are preferred to the family for Pickwick Cemetery improvements.