Sgt. Joseph P. Morgan
September 17, 2020
Sgt. Joseph “Joe” Patrick Morgan, age 54, passed away Wednesday, September 16, 2020.
Joe was born September 4, 1966 to William and Sharlene (Miller) Morgan. He graduated from Northern University High School in Cedar Falls and from Wartburg College with a degree in Criminal Justice. It was Joe’s lifelong dream to be a police officer. His career path included serving with the Cedar Rapids Police Department, as Chief of Police for Oxford Junction, with the Clive Police Department, and finally on the Des Moines Police Force, joining in 1998, and achieving the rank of Sergeant in 2006. He said it was his goal to have a positive impact on his corner of the world. Always level headed with an intact sense of humor, he was well-suited to serve his community and well-liked among the public and his fellow law enforcement family.
A devoted family man, his commitment to his family was first and foremost. They were always his highest priority. He was an avid Minnesota Vikings fan and loved attending the Iowa State Fair. He was an enthusiastic comic book collector and a real life Superhero. He will be remembered for his fierce dedication to his family and friends, his city, and his fellow officers. He will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
He is survived by his loving wife, Jennifer; children, Andrew and Ava Morgan; parents, Bill and Sharlene Morgan; sister, Kelli (Greg) McCormick; parents-in-law, David and Nancy Christy, and Pat and Jim Hoyt; many nieces, nephews, loving relatives and friends.
Services will be held at Lutheran Church of Hope, 925 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines. Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, September 22, 2020. Funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 23, 2020. Burial will follow at Glendale Cemetery in Des Moines. Masks and social distancing will be required.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the Sgt. Joseph Morgan Memorial Fund, SERVE Credit Union, 423 East Court Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50309, 515-243-2677.
Todd Ulrich
09/24/2020
Joe was one of the finest men I have ever known. I first met Joe when he was in Junior High School and he was truly the All-American boy. He ran track and cross country, had a paper route, collected comic books, played arcade games, and had dreams of one day being a police officer. I am very heartbroken that I will never get to hear Joe's laugh or see his smiling face again here on Earth but know I will see him again in the afterlife. My deepest sympathies go out to the entire Morgan family, his co-workers, and his friends who I know are experiencing the same sense of loss I am.
Parent of a DMPD officer
09/23/2020
Joe was a wonderful mentor, trainer, friend and example to my son for many years. He modeled both professionalism and compassion at the same time. His life was a huge positive influence to many officers.
I am praying that God will cover your family with his peace during this difficult time.
Cheeko Camel
09/23/2020
It was a great honor to cross paths with you during my law enforcement career. May you forever rest in peace in the comfort of the Lord ??
Sergeant Shane Taylor-Urbandale PD
09/23/2020
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. It was a pleasure knowing Joe and learning from the best.
Deb Brown
09/23/2020
My thoughts and Prayers are with you Jennifer and your family, during this difficult time. Remember the beautiful times. May he R.I.P.
Shawna Pope
09/22/2020
My deepest sympathies to you, Jennifer, and your family. May you find comfort in your loving memories.
Kurt Schilling
09/22/2020
My heart goes out to all of the family and loved ones. Such cherished memories of Joe growing up together and at NUHS. The entire Schilling family sends our deepest sympathies. Thoughts and prayers to you all.
Coach Bob Lee
09/21/2020
Joe was a track/cc runner for me. I still remember when Sharlene approached me about getting him out for CC. He was always one to maximize his talent. He worked as hard and competed as well as anyone. I remember one CC race where he was leading and took a wrong turn, when we got him back on course he was in fourth. He won the race. That was Joe.
He will be missed by all who knew him. My heart goes out to his family and all his friends. We'll miss you man!
Connie Thompson
09/20/2020
My heart breaks for you all. Joe was a great all around guy. Wonderful husband, father and friend. He will be greatly missed by many. May God grant you His peace and comfort.
Mary Young
09/20/2020
I still can't believe I'm reading the obituary of Joe Morgan. He was such a kind and gentle soul. He helped a lot in planning our class reunions every time we had one. His presence will be greatly missed at our next gathering. From me and the NUHS class of 1985, spread your wings and fly high my friend. To Jennifer Andrew and Ava my deepest and sincerest sympathies to you all may God wrap his loving arms around you and comfort you during this difficult Journey
2 Timothy 4:7-8
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
8. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that dayand not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.
Terry Brauch, Ret. Clive PD
09/20/2020
I know Joe from his time with Clive PD. Even though he left Clive many years ago, he never forgot those who he worked with. He attended retirement parties and kept in touch with those who called him a friend. I pray that God will give you the comfort you need in this difficult time. He will be sorely missed.
Jodi Henning
09/20/2020
My prayers are with Jennifer and kids. Joe was an absolute wonderful person, always willing to help plan our class reunions. I was absolutely stunned to read this sad news. May you find strength in the Lord.
Former DMPD
09/20/2020
I remember Joe just starting out at DMPD, we rode together on a few occassions back on 3rd watch.
He was a very good man, and police officer and it is hard to believe he is gone!
RIP Joe!
Mike Christy
09/20/2020
Jennifer, Andrew, Ava and all who loved Joe
I was shocked and saddened to learn of Joes passing. Please know that myself, my Mom and my brothers and sisters are hoping and praying that you can find peace and comfort in this difficult time.
Bernie Fleischacker
09/19/2020
My sincere condolences to all of Joe's family and friends. Although I never met him, it is clear from his obituary and the condolences others have written that he was a wonderful guy who will be greatly missed.