Joseph Gerrit Olsem passed away on June 20, 2026 at the age of 78 at Good Samaritan Society- Windom, MN. A private graveside service will be held at the Springfield Township Cemetery. An open house/memorial for the public was held on Thursday, June 25, 2026 from 1:00 to 4:00 PM at the Heron Lake Community Center in Heron Lake, MN. Joe was born in Windom, MN on June 15, 1948 to Martin and Katherine (Cuperus) Olsem. He was the 2nd oldest of 11 children. He attended the District 48 country school until 8th grade and graduated from Storden High School in 1966. After graduation he joined the National Guard and farmed with his father and brothers. He married Carolyn Haken on November 26, 1977 and together they raised 5 children and farmed for 50 years in Cottonwood and Jackson Counties. He was a member of the Springfield Township board and a member of the Storden American Legion for over 50 years. Joe was an exceptionally hard worker that loved farming and he did not stop until his health forced him to retire in 2025. He could fix anything on the farm or in the house and spent countless hours in the “shop” repairing or building things for the farm. He did take time to enjoy farm shows, parades, county fairs and several trips with Carolyn over the years. Joe loved to talk about the weather, care for his vehicles, and had an excellent memory. For many years, he and Nick hosted the “Power Hour” at the shop and all were welcome for a cup of coffee and to share the latest news. More recently he took a large interest in the tile business his two youngest sons had started. He is survived by his wife Carolyn, daughter Diana (Shawn) Stoermann, Melissa (James) Vande Weerd, Scott (Amanda) Olsem, Michael (Catherine) Olsem, and Jason (Taylor) Olsem. 15 Grandchildren: Kaden Stoermann, Adriana, Braiden, Kenzie Olsem, Jacob, Kenzie, Andrew Albrecht, Ashlyn, Jaxson, Everlee Vande Weerd, Matthew, Caleb, Madison Olsem, Kolten Sieben and Elijah Olsem. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Nick and John, and aunt Annie. The Totzke Funeral Home in Fulda is assisting the family with arrangements. Send condolences online at www.totzkefuneralhome. com.
