Joel Mark Van Order, 64

Joel (Joe) M. Van Order, 64 of Birnamwood, formerly of Paicines, California, died unexpectedly on Saturday, December 16, 2017 at his home.

He was born on March 30, 1953 in Wausau, the son of the late John C. Sr. and Thelma E. (Gunderson) Van Order.

Joe’s construction skills led him to becoming the caretaker at Stone Canyon Ranch in Paicines, CA. After retirement, he moved back to Wisconsin.

Joe adored his children and grandchildren. He was extremely proud of each and every one of them. He was especially fond of animals and had many pets throughout his life. He was an avid Packers fan, loved to golf, enjoyed Wisconsin pizza, fish fries, and brats. He was an old car enthusiast and was very proud of the ‘41 Chevy Coupe he customized.

Joe is survived by his children, Leah Jo (Jason) Islinger of Menasha, Evan James Ermer of Kimberly and Odessa “Odie” Van Order of Fullerton, CA; grandchildren Lukas, Avery, Claire and Grant Islinger; siblings Jack Jr. (Sally) Van Order of Birnamwood, Mike (Connie) Van Order of Marion, Cheryl (John) Janssen of Hortonville, Bob (Terry) Van Order of Wausau and Wendy (Joe) Bushman of Galloway along with many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents and his nephew Jay Van Order.

Visitation will be at the Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home in Wittenberg on Friday, January 19, 2018 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. A Memorial Service will immediately follow. Deacon David Ashenbrenner will officiate. Inurnment will be in Holy Family Catholic Cemetery in the Spring.