Joseph Edward Micka, age 92, met the Lord he served so faithfully on June 22, 2025.

Born on September 22, 1932, in Darlington, Wis., Joe was the son of Edward and Florence Micka. He grew up alongside his loving sisters, Norma (Frank) Bahowick and Nancy (Garner) Oswald, both of whom preceded him in death.

Joe developed a strong work ethic early in life, shaped in part by his regular presence at Darlington’s first super market — the Kroger Super Market, managed by his father.

A proud Darlington Redbird, Joe was a standout on the football field under the lauded Coach W.W. “Wadzy” Martens. His senior season in 1950 culminated in an appearance in Wisconsin’s North-South All-Star Game and a football scholarship to Marquette University.

A 1956 graduate of Marquette University’s Dental School, Joe began a career with honor and discipline, serving the U.S. Navy from 1955 to 1960. After his military service, he settled in Darlington where he established his dental practice. For 32 years, Dr. Joe cared for generations of families with his skilled hands, warm smile, and genuine kindness.

Joe’s Catholic faith was the cornerstone of his life. In 1968, he married Mary Eiche of West Allis, Wis., who shared his deep commitment to God. Together they raised two children, Paul and Sara, and were devoted members of Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Darlington.

After retiring in 1994, Joe and Mary relocated to Hales Corners, Wis. There, Joe found joy in caring for his lawn, shrubs, and trees, and in serving others as a communion minister in Milwaukee-area hospitals — a ministry he carried out faithfully for 22 years. Joe and Mary became cherished members of the St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church community, where he was active in the Holy Name Society.

Joe was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 54 years, Mary.

He is survived by his children, Paul (Michelle) Micka and Sara (Salvatore) Patricolo and his grandsons, Jonathan and Matthew Micka. He was endlessly proud of his family and their accomplishments.

Joe also leaves behind his brother-in-law and friend, Garner Oswald and his dear sister-in-law, Eleanor Bergmann as well as many loving nieces and nephews: Elizabeth (Kevin) Barwick, Molly (Karl) Fekete, Kristine (Mike) Trapp, Julie Gibson, Amy (Alan) Arber, Constance (Rob) Urbanek, Theresa (Tim) Hoth, Jennifer (George) McCary, and Christopher (Alison) Eiche.

In their later years, Joe and Mary moved to Las Cruces, N.M., to be closer to family. He passed away peacefully following a brief illness.

A joint service to celebrate the lives of Joseph and Mary Micka will be held on October 4 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 104 E. Harriet St., Darlington. A Rosary service will begin at 9:00 a.m., followed by visitation from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., and a funeral Mass at 11:30 a.m. A private burial will follow at Holy Rosary Cemetery. The Erickson Funeral Home in Darlington is serving the family. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers, dedicated Mass intentions may be requested, or memorial contributions may be made to the Darlington High School Touchdown Club and mailed to: 11838 Center Hill Rd, Darlington, WI 53530.

Joseph Micka

September 22, 1932 - June 22, 2025

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