Joseph Mathews

Joseph Michael was born on March 24, 1968 at Mercy Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa to Michael and Janet Mathews. He was 2 1/2 months premature and weighed only 3lbs 14 oz. Later in life he ended up bigger in size and nicknamed himself J. Biggs. Joe loved people and he thought of strangers as friends he had not met. He graduated from Des Moines East High School, class of 1986. He was proud to be a Scarlet! He was a basketball manager. He loved being a part of the team. He loved watching all sports, including his favorite teams Cubs, Vikings and the Iowa State Cyclones and then conversing via text or call with his Dad and Joe Bird, his life-long friend. One of his biggest passions was softball. He loved to play, coach and umpire. When he couldn't do that he would keep score for the tournaments. He loved that team "Spirit" wanted him as part of their team. As long as he could be with people! Before Joe became disabled, he worked as a night auditor, which he enjoyed especially anything with numbers. He also worked for the Des Moines Park and Rec. He loved to bowl. On 11/30/01 he bowled a perfect 300 game.

Joe had faith and knew where he was going. His hope was everyone else would know Jesus so we will all be reunited again.

He is survived by his cat Frankay which was his pride and joy, his sister Kay who he called Mickay and his brother-in-law Bryan he referred to as Bry-Dog. His father Mike and his wife Sandy, who he referred to as "Mom". His ex-wife Susan, who cared for him as long as she could. His step-brothers Chuck and Jody Faux. Aunts, Uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, special adopted "little sisters", Great friends and 4 very special people he referred to as "Omaha" and they were planning to see him "soon" - Kim, Keisha, Austin and Zane Burkman.

He was preceded in death by his mother Janet Mathews, Grandparents, and other special family.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa in his name. All memorial gifts will also be donated to the ARL in his name.

Print