Ishpeming - Joseph L. "Joe" Villeneuve, age 58, longtime Ishpeming resident passed away Tuesday, August 24, 2010 at his camp in Republic.


Joe was born October 3, 1951 in Ishpeming the son of the late Paul Villeneuve and Lillian (Ylinen) Fosmoe. He was a graduate of the Ishpeming High School, Class of 1969. Following graduation he enlisted in the United States Navy and served during the Vietnam War. He received the National Defense Medal, Vietnam Service Medal w/ bronze star, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal. Upon his honorable discharge from the Navy in 1973, he moved to Oregon for a short period working at a furniture manufacturing plant, before returning to Ishpeming.


Joe was a member of the American Legion, Post #114 & the Marquette Co. Humane Society. He enjoyed working on his Ford Model "A" and was a member of the Superior "A's" Club. Joe loved spending time at his camp in Republic and the great outdoors.


Survivors include his soul mate and companion for over 30 years, June Lummukka of Ishpeming, sons – Jason (Veronica) Hammack of Woodburn, OR, and Paul (Teresa Jackson) Lummukka of Ishpeming, 4 grandchildren – Carissa, Celeste, Robert & Jessica, 2 sisters – Kay (Ken) Villeneuve of Champion and Carol (Joseph) Bilding of Newald, WI, 3 brothers – Jim Villeneuve, Edwin (Sharon) Villeneuve and John Villeneuve all of Ishpeming, a special friend Michael Konster of Ishpeming along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and an uncle. He was preceded in death by his parents, his step-father Doug Fosmoe, and a brother Paul Villeneuve.


Cremation has taken place and there will be no funeral services at this time.