Joseph "Joe" Masyga

Joseph C. Masyga, 87, passed from this earth on Saturday, January 29, 2022, from heart complications.

He was born September 23, 1934, in Winona, to Joseph and Dorothy (Rogers) Masyga.  He grew up in the East End of Winona attending St Stan’s and Washington-Kosciusko schools, and graduated from Winona High School.

Joe attended Winona State Teachers College for two years in 1953 and 1954. He learned he did not want to become a teacher.  He continued his studies with correspondence courses.  Joe took a job at the State Highway department.  In 1957 he was drafted into the US Army, interrupting his career.  He served two years in Greenland performing atmospheric radio tests and trying to stay warm.  In 1959 he was honorably discharged and came home to Winona.

Joe met the love of his life down by the levee.  On September 10, 1960, Gloria Jeanne Hittner and Joe were wed.  They were married 62 years.   Together they raised two wonderful children.  Lori (Pat) Gensmer and Jon Masyga (Tammy Seebold).

Joe worked at MnDOT for 42 years as a senior highway technician, retiring in 2000.  Joe’s certificate of appreciation for years employed was signed by then Governor Jesse Ventura.   Joe enjoyed hunting and fishing, camping, and working in his garden.  He was active in the Knights of Columbus council #639 in Winona, acting as Financial Secretary for many years and Grand Knight in 1972.  He played softball and volleyball with the KCs over many years.

He is survived by his wife, his children, a brother Peter Masyga; grandchildren Jordan (Kelsey) Gensmer, and Jenna (Ben) Kubis; great-grandchildren Sage and Austin Gensmer; and nieces and nephew.  Joe is preceded in death by his parents, a brother, and a sister.

Visitation will be held from 10 AM until a prayer service at noon on Monday, February 14, 2022, at the Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home, 376 E. Sarnia St., Winona. Father Bob Stamschror will officiate.  Burial will take place at a later date.

A special thanks to the 3rd and 5th floors of St. Anne’s,  and especially Nikki Wantoch, for their loving and wonderful care.

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