He was born on Feb. 22, 1960, in Mendota, the son of Melvin and Howardene (Leffelman) Stewart.
Joseph worked at Del Monte Foods, where he planted, harvested, and supervised for 20 years. He farmed, raised livestock, and custom-farmed for numerous farmers and seed companies. He also worked at the Lee County Highway Department for more than 20 years prior to his retirement. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and tractor pulling.
Joseph married Diane Shaw on Nov. 7, 1981, at St. Patrick Catholic Church. He was preceded in death by his father, Melvin, and his in-laws, Gene and Judie Shaw.
Joseph is survived by his wife, Diane; children, Joey (Jensen Lewis) Stewart and Jacob (Nichole) Stewart; grandchildren, Chase Stewart, Asher Stewart, Lily Stewart, and Eva Stewart; his beloved dog, Ruby; his mother, Howardene Stewart; siblings, Marty (Nancy) Stewart, Tom (Jennifer) Stewart, Bob (Jackie) Stewart, and Sabrina (Shawn) Stewart; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 22, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Patrick Catholic Church. Burial will follow at St. Patrick Cemetery.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 21, 2026, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Mihm-Jones Funeral Home.
A memorial has been established for his grandchildren. Arrangements were completed by Mihm-Jones Funeral Home.
