Joseph "Joe" Anthony Ries

Joseph A. Ries, age 61, passed peacefully after a brief but courageous fight with stage IV kidney cancer on January 3, 2026, at United Hospital in Saint Paul.Joe was born on May 6, 1964, in Hastings to Joseph and Marilyn Ries. He grew up in Vermillion and graduated from Hastings High School, Class of 1982. Following high school, Joe pursued a career as a truck driver and was a proud member of the Local 49 Union, where his strong work ethic and dedication were well known.

Joe found his greatest joy in the outdoors and with his family. He loved hunting and fishing, especially spending time at deer camp with his boys. Family meant everything to Joe—whether it was vacationing with his wife and tagging the kids along, mowing lawns, or simply enjoying time with his grandchildren. He worked hard, provided faithfully, and took pride in teaching those around him through both words and example.

In June 1989, Joe married the love of his life, Bobbi Litschke, in Hastings. Together they shared 36 years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and devotion to their family.Joe will be remembered as a loving, kind, and amazing husband, father, and grandfather. He was a wonderful provider, a patient teacher, and a true fighter. Rare and special, Joe’s strength and heart will never be forgotten.

Above all else, Joe was an incredible father and an even more amazing papa. He showed his love through being present, protection, and always putting his family first. His steady guidance, sense of humor, and unwavering support shaped the lives of those who knew him best. Joe leaves behind a legacy of strength, kindness, and devotion that will live on through his children and grandchildren. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.

Joe was extremely proud of his four children and who they have become. 

He was preceded in death by his mother, Marilyn, and his father-in-law, Fred Litschke. Joe is survived by his wife of 36 years, Bobbi; children, Tony (Carsyn), Stephanie (Brent) Zeien, John (Maddy), and Katelyn (Michael) Wardell; grandchildren, Chloe, Mason, and Emery; father, Joseph; mother-in-law, Kathy Litschke; siblings, Chicky (Blake) Otte and Pat (Jenny); and many other loving relatives and friends. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at 1:00PM at Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church in Vermillion with a visitation starting at 11:00AM. Reception will follow Mass at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel. Interment will be in Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Cemetery.