Joseph D. Jewison

Joseph D. Jewison, age 87, of Janesville died unexpectedly on Monday, October 17, 2016 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester as a result of a fall while farming.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, October 21, 2016, at 11:00 am at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Janesville. Interment will be in St. Ann’s Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be on Thursday, October 20, 2016, from 4:00 – 7:00 pm at St. Ann’s Catholic Church and will continue for one hour prior to the Mass at the church on
Friday.

Arrangements are with Starkson & Steffel Funeral & Cremation Services ~ Arnoldt Chapel in Janesville.

Joseph Donald Jewison was born on September 7, 1929, to Arthur and Kathryn (Cahill) Jewison in the “Stone House” on the original Jewison family farm in Janesville Township. This is the farm that Joe lived on his entire life before moving to town in 2008. Joe began farming at a young age. He graduated from Janesville High School with the class of 1947. He continued farming alongside his brother Bill following his education, with each eventually running their own operation.

He met the love of his life, Rosela (Rosie) Regina Goettl at the Kato Ballroom. They were united in marriage at St. Peter and Paul’s Catholic Church in Mankato on September 10, 1952. This marriage was blessed with nine children. Joe was very proud of each and every one of them.

Joe was a lifelong farmer and over the years he raised a variety of crops and livestock including corn, beans, dairy cattle and hogs which he raised from farrow to finish. He never lost his love for farming as he continued to help his sons farm up to and including his last day.

Joe was a faithful member of St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Janesville where he had served as a trustee, Eucharistic minister and an usher. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus, Catholic Order of Foresters and Irish American Club, where he and Rosie were honored with being named Mr. and Mrs. Emerald Isle. He truly enjoyed connecting with people, especially his country neighbors. He always had time to visit with and share his Irish wit with anyone he came across. His family fondly remembers him for his dedication and loyalty that he showed to Rosie, his family, the farm and his faith.

Blessed be his memory.

Joe is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Rosela; three daughters: Ann (Cliff) Wetzel of Waterville, Colleen (Joe) Sexton of Oakdale and Helen (John Chuck) Peterson of Madison Lake; six sons: Joe (Gina) of Platteville, WI, Mike (Carol) of Janesville, Jeff (Pam) of New Prague, Dennis (Glenda) of Janesville, Mark of Sherburn and Ted (Julie) of Northfield; 34 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; siblings: Fr. Harry Jewison (his friend Judy) of Rochester, Rita (Jim) of Waseca and Grace Kopischke of Rochester; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Proceeded in death by his parents, siblings: Ellen (Joe) Tetzloff, Elaine (Frank) Sheeran, Artie (Rita), Faye (Art) Groh and Bill (Anita); brother-in-law, Rudy Kopischke.

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