Joseph "Joe" Howard Jameson

Joseph "Joe" Howard Jameson January 19, 1951 – August 24, 2026 

Joseph "Joe" Howard Jameson, age 75, passed away peacefully on August 24, 2026, at the New Glarus Home in New Glarus, Wisconsin, with his devoted wife by his side.

Joe was born on January 19, 1951, in Beloit, Wisconsin, to Joseph Howard Jameson and Betty Jane Jameson (Anderson). A lifelong Wisconsin resident, Joe attended Brother Dutton School in Beloit from first through eighth grade before graduating from Beloit Catholic High School with the Class of 1969.

On May 10, 1986, Joe married Deborah Rexroat (Hodgson) in Madison, Wisconsin. Together they shared 40 years of marriage, building a life rooted in love, family, friendship, laughter, and the simple joys of country living.

Joe enjoyed a long and successful career as a Building Inspector. He retired in the spring of 2025 after more than four decades in the profession serving the communities of Monona, Fitchburg, Middleton, and Verona, Wisconsin. During his final 20 years in Verona, Joe completed an estimated 10,000 inspections on the EPIC Headquarters campus. He was respected for his professionalism, diligence, dedication, and strong work ethic.

Outside of work, Joe embraced life to the fullest. An avid golfer since childhood, he also enjoyed playing Euchre and Sheepshead, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. While he appreciated new adventures, he was most comfortable at home in the countryside he loved. Many of his happiest hours were spent "puttering" around the property in his beloved "Rig," often with a cigar in hand, finding projects to tackle and reasons to stay busy. In the evenings, he enjoyed gathering around the firepit with friends, sharing stories, laughter, a bourbon, and a cigar. Joe and his “Rig" logged countless miles driving the neighborhood trails and countryside he called home.

Those who knew Joe will remember his quick wit, playful spirit, and unforgettable sense of humor. Practical jokes were one of his specialties, and no one was ever completely safe from becoming the target of one of his good-natured pranks. He had a unique gift for making people feel special and connected. If Joe gave you a nickname, you knew you were special. As family and friends will fondly attest, he had a nickname for just about everyone.

Joe is survived by his loving wife, Deb; his sister, Sue Rufener; his children, Andrew (Alisa) Jameson; Melissa (Jeff) Muck; and Laura (Mike) Buss. He was a proud grandfather to Hannah (Clayton) Uselman; Morgan (Eddie) Garcia; Owen and Rylee Buss.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph, and Betty; his brother-in-law, Richard Rufener; and his son-in-law, James “Jimmy” Romlein.

Joe also leaves behind many cherished relatives, lifelong friends, neighbors, and former colleagues who will deeply miss his humor, kindness, friendship, and generous heart. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched, the memories he created, and the love he shared so freely with those around him. His family finds comfort in the many stories, laughter, and lasting memories he leaves behind.

Joe’s family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff of the New Glarus Home and Agrace Hospice for the exceptional care, kindness, and dignity they provided Joe throughout his final journey. Their support, comfort, and unwavering dedication were a tremendous blessing not only to Joe, but also to his family during a difficult time. The kindness shown by these caregivers will never be forgotten.

Deb and the family would also like to extend their sincere appreciation to the many family members and friends who surrounded them with love and support throughout Joe's illness. The beautiful flowers, fresh vegetables from garden harvests, thoughtfully prepared meals, homemade sweet treats, cards, visits, phone calls, and regular check-ins provided comfort, encouragement, and kindness during a tough time. Every gesture, no matter how small, was deeply appreciated and will always be remembered.

In accordance with Joe's wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no visitation or funeral service. A Celebration of Life will be planned and announced at a later date, where family and friends will be invited to gather, share memories, and celebrate the life of a man who brought laughter, friendship, and love to so many.

Joe's family encourages those who knew him to remember him with a smile, share a story, enjoy a round of golf, gather around a fire with friends, or raise a toast in his honor. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you make a charitable donation to a favorite organization of your choice.