Joseph “Joe” Omundson, a devoted family man and community volunteer, passed away on February 18, 2026, at the Interfaith Care Center in Carlton, Minnesota. He was 86 years old. Born on August 8, 1939, in Minneapolis to John and Alice (Hicks) Omundson, he moved to Duluth at the age of eight, where he would spend much of his life.
Joe attended local schools, beginning with Piedmont Elementary and continuing through Lincoln Junior High, before graduating from Denfeld High School in 1957. His sense of duty led him to serve in the Army National Guard from 1962 to 1968. Following his military service, Joe dedicated himself to a lengthy career as a sales representative at Georgia Pacific (Superwood), where he worked for 37 years before retiring in 1997.
A Life Rich with Community Engagement
In 1976, Joe married Barb Hutchinson in a ceremony at 1st Covenant Church. Together, they were active members of various congregations, including Kenwood Lutheran, Immanuel Lutheran Church in Proctor, and the United Lutheran Church of Proctor. Joe’s commitment to community service was evident in his volunteer roles at the St. Louis County Jail and Bayview Elementary School.
Joe was also an enthusiastic participant in local sports. He served as a hockey referee for high school and small college games and umpired fast pitch softball. His passion for athletics extended to running, as he participated in races ranging from five-mile events to marathons. Additionally, Joe enjoyed both downhill and cross-country skiing and took part in several motorcycle trips to Sturgis, South Dakota, as well as vacations in Mexico.
Family and Legacy
Joe is remembered fondly by his family, which includes his wife, Barb, daughter Jody (Mike) Rademaker, and son Joel (Rebecca) Omundson. He also leaves behind twin granddaughters, Veronica Rademaker and Julia (Jon) Strong, as well as five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother William, sister-in-law Janet, and brother James.
A visitation will be held at the Cremation Society located at 4100 Grand Ave. in Duluth on March 18 from 14:00 to 16:00. A Masonic service will follow at 16:00, with participation from the Duluth Honor Guard. Joe’s inurnment will take place at Oneota Cemetery.
The family expresses their gratitude to all the friends and community members who supported them throughout this journey. Special thanks are extended to the staff at Interfaith Care Center and St. Croix Hospice for their compassionate care. Joe Omundson’s life serves as a testament to a legacy of service, adventure, and dedication to family and community.
