Joseph P. DeSimone

Joseph Patrick DeSimone, age 87, of Mishawaka, IN passed away on September 8th, 2025, surrounded by his family. He joined his beloved wife, Marilyn, and his son-in-law, Ron Shirley, up in heaven. He is survived by his son, Gregory, his daughter and son-in-law, Michele and Dominic Ball, and two grandchildren, Anthony (Jacqueline) Ball and Lexi (Luke) Labus. He is also survived by his two brothers, Sam (Mona) and John (Diane), along with his sister-in-law, Kathleen Yates, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Joe was born on September 18th, 1937, to Catherine and Batista DeSimone. He graduated from Mishawaka High School, and he was a proud veteran of the United States Army. Joe met the love of his life, Marilyn, while “cruising” in downtown Mishawaka. They married in 1959 and spent 55 incredible years together.

As a journeyman tool and die maker, he spent his career creating things with his hands, before retiring from Miles Laboratories, later Bayer Corp. in 1999. While working at Bayer, he was granted numerous patents related to aerospace. After Joe retired, he enjoyed traveling with his wife, visiting his children, and cheering on his grandchildren for each and every event. He never missed a moment to celebrate the people that he loved.

Joe was a lifelong member of the Maria S.S. Di Loreto Society and enjoyed the community and brotherhood that he found within the club, especially his Wednesday morning coffee with his friends.

Joe was the best husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He was fiercely loyal and will be missed by the many people’s lives he touched. He may have had two children and two grandchildren, but to everyone that knew him — he was simply “PawPaw.” His warmth, wisdom, and welcoming nature made everyone feel like family.

The family wishes to express their deep appreciation to the first responders as well as the staff at Memorial Hospital for their extraordinary kindness and compassion.

Visitation will take place at 11:00 am on Friday, September 12th at Queen of Peace Catholic Church followed immediately by a 12:00 pm funeral mass. Arrangements are being handled by Wells & Cruz Family Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Center for Hospice Care in Mishawaka, IN. To light a virtual candle, share a story of Joseph's life, or leave a message of comfort for his family, please follow the links provided on the Guestbook tab above. 

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