Joseph H. "Joe" Murck

Joseph Harold Murck, age 72, of Winona, passed away on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at his home, following a battle with cancer.

He was born on June 9, 1954, in Minneapolis, MN, to Harold and Elizabeth “Betty” (Murray) Murck. Joe attended Cotter High School in Winona where he was a member of the hockey team and graduated with the Class of 1973. In 1997, Joe married Kathy Kump at St. John Nepomucene Church in Winona.

From the beginning of his career, Joe was the consummate salesman. He sold cars and auto parts over the phone. Known as “Matco Joe,” he owned a Matco Tools franchise for 20 years. He also sided houses with his brother, John.

Joe was a lifelong fisherman and hunted pheasant, turkey, and deer. He was an avid fan of the Vikings and Twins, and he enjoyed golfing, which he started playing as a young man with his dad.

To know Joe was to love Joe. He was gregarious, quick-witted, and never met a stranger. He was tender-hearted, kind, and was a loyal and true friend.

He loved a good story whether listening to other’s stories or telling his own. He could also tell a great joke and always with a twinkle in his eye.

Joe loved animals, especially his beloved German shorthair, Sadie. In later life, Joe was the neighborhood dog whisperer, giving treats to all the dogs.

Joe is lovingly survived by his wife, Kathy; siblings: John (Rita), Mary, Marcia (William), and Jerry; brother-in-law, Ray; as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Betty; brothers, Jim and Judd; and a brother-in-law, Michael.

A celebration of Joe’s life will be held at the Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home, 376 E. Sarnia St., Winona, on Thursday, August 13, 2026, from 1 PM until 4 PM.

Online condolences or memories may be left for Joe’s family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.