SPARTA - Joe Rivers, 82, of Sparta, passed away August 10, 2026, at Brookdale Assisted Senior Living, in La Crosse, after a short illness.
Joe was born into a large family in Staten Island, New York, to Richard and Rose Rivers. He left home at the age of 17 to join the Army, and served two tours in Vietnam. While in the service, he met his wife La Vonne Stockel, while stationed at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin.
In 1965, Joe and LaVonne were married, in New York. They traveled to many places together while Joe completed his time in the army. One of their favorite places was in Germany and they visited there often after his discharge.
They settled in Sparta where Joe was a member of many organizations including the VFW, American Legion, Lions Club and Knights of Columbus. He was active in his church (St. Patrick’s Catholic Church).
Joe held many jobs after the army, but his last and favorite was working for the railroad. He made many friends through his jobs, organizations and church which became lifelong friends. Joe never lost his eastern accent and many of his friends comment on it still today.
Joe is survived by his wife of 61 years, and brothers and sisters that live on the East Coast, and a granddaughter and great grandson in Germany.
The family would like to extend a grateful Thank You to the Agrace Hospice team for the care they extended during Joe’s last days.
A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m., Thursday, September 10, 2026 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Sparta, with Father Eric Berns officiating. Full Military Honors will be provided by American Legion Post 100 and VFW Post 2112, both of Sparta, following the service. A luncheon will follow at the church.
A visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. on Thursday, at the church. Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com.
Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with arrangements.
Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation
