Joseph D. “Joe” Early

Joseph D. “Joe” Early, aged 32 passed away on Saturday, October 8, 2016. He was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan and lived in Caledonia. He was preceded in death by his mother, Kristine Sue Early. He is survived by his father, Tim (Judy) Early; brother, Colin Early; grandfather, Richard Early; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Joe graduated from Jenison High School in 2002, joined the US Army in 2003 as a MP and served three tours of duty in Iraq. Joe attended Grand Valley State University where he was working hard toward a degree in social work. He greatly enjoyed getting together with his group of high school friends. They enjoyed golfing, playing cards and trivia night. A highlight of his life was being a lottery winner and was a “born and raised” Notre Dame fan. Funeral services for Joe will be held Monday, October 17, 2016 at 11:00 am at the Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Chapel (Kentwood), 4646 Kalamazoo Ave. SE with Pastor Dennis Gilbert officiating. The family will receive relatives and friends at the funeral home Monday from 10 am until the time of the service.

Leave Your Tribute Message

October 17, 2016

I served with in the Army. He was always the happy one and great to be around. He will be missed.

- Alexander Duncan

October 15, 2016

I met Joey when his mom and I became good friends working together at the Post Office. We were both arbitration advocates - Kris (his mom) for USPS management and I for the American Postal Workers Union. I often marveled at how Kris could keep her mind focused on our cases while Joey, her only child, was in Iraq. I developed a lot of admiration and respect for her from the time we met. As I got to know her better, I spent a lot of time at her home and got to know Joey and his grandpa. Joey was a good son and they had a wonderful relationship. He made me feel welcome in their home and kept in touch periodically since his mom passed away. I appreciated that so much because losing a great friend is very painful. My sincere condolences to Joey's family. He was a fine young man, who served his country and was proud to do so, and he loved his mom and made sure that she knew it. Rest in peace, Joey. Give your mom a hug for me.

- Mickey Elmore

October 13, 2016

We are sorry that we didn't have the opportunity to meet Joe. His military service is to be respected. We care a lot about Colin and know he and the entire family will miss Joe. With Sympathy, John and Beth Foster

- John and Beth Foster

October 12, 2016

When Joe was in basic training he had one day when he was really struggling and tried to call his mom but she was not available. He then called my son who was also not home but he asked if we could talk. He cried and shared his struggles. He always thanked me for being there for him whenever I saw him. He had a big heart. His mama was crazy proud of him and I am glad they are reunited but sad he gone from us.

- Suzanne Katerberg

October 12, 2016

My condolences to the family. I served with Joe during his first deployment to Iraq. Joe was a wonderful person who always knew how to make everyone laugh, even in the toughest times, and I am glad I had the honor of serving with him. He will be truly missed.

- William Trabucco

October 12, 2016

Joe was one of my all time favorite students. He was an incredible human being and i will miss him and remember him well. Blessings to his family and many, many friends.

- Joseph Verschaeve

October 11, 2016

Condolences to the family. I served with Joe in the army and deployed together to Iraq. Joseph was a great guy. He would do just about anything to get someone to laugh. He will be missed.

- Eric Ballentine

October 11, 2016

I served with Joe Early in the 66th MP Company during deployment to OIF II. Joe was an amazing young man. He had a knack for making folks feel better just by spending time with him. I feel lucky to have known him and he will be sorely missed.....till Valhalla Warrior!

- Ricky Haralson

October 11, 2016

I had the pleasure of serving with Early in the Army. I do not remember a day that he was not smiling or making jokes. He was such an uplifting spirit. Fly high brother, rest in peace, and take seat right next to the best of them!

- Amanda Smith

October 11, 2016

Joe was a great guy and a good friend. was my pleasure and a great honor to have known him and served with Father Joe. he will be truly missed. Love ya brother.

- Thad Nale

October 11, 2016

Served with Joe in the 66thmp co 2004-2005 REST IN PEACE BROTHER

- Frank Miranda - Georgetown, Texas

October 11, 2016

He was a great friend and soldier and it is a great loss for all of us. It was an honor serving with him. The loss of such a great person as Early is hard for everyone who he touched. He was such a great person and impacted everyone he made contact with. He will be sadly missed but never forgotten.

- Robert Krout (Ackerman)

October 11, 2016

I deployed with Joel 2004, he was a fantastic guy. I'm so sorry for your loss.

- Suzanne Swift