Joseph Lee Kailing's Obituary
Big Rapids - Joseph Lee Kailing, age 61, of White Cloud, passed away peacefully at his home on July 30, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on November 5, 1963, in Big Rapids. Joe was the eldest of seven children born to Robert Kailing and Phyllis Withers. He attended St. Mary-St. Paul Catholic Church in Big Rapids.
On May 26, 1990, Joe married the love of his life, Eva. Together they built a life rooted in love, hard work, and faith. They raised their four children, Chris, Robert, Katie, and Emmalee in the Big Rapids area, teaching them the values of integrity, kindness, and perseverance. Joe was a devoted husband, proud father and grandfather who cherished every moment spent with his family.
Joe had a deep love for the outdoors. He enjoyed spending time cutting wood in the winter, feeding the birds and squirrels, or camping, hunting and fishing with his family. He loved raising and caring for his livestock and pets, one of many values his dad, and grandpa Joe instilled in him.
Joe began working with his dad driving dump trucks when he could barely reach the pedals or see over the steering wheel. This fostered a strong work ethic which started him on his lifelong devotion to hard work. Over the years, he was employed at Western Concrete, Jomar Construction, Hydaker-Wheatlake (ANR Pipeline), and M.J. Electric before proudly owning and operating Kailing Sand and Gravel.
A proud member of the IBEW 876, Joe was known for his incredible work ethic and was rarely found idle. He was honest, generous, and fiercely loyal. He was a man of strong conviction—always willing to stand up for what was right and help those in need, often carrying the cost when others could not. Joe loved deeply and forgave easily.
Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife of 35 years, Eva; their four children: Chris (Macy) Kailing, Robert Kailing, Katie Kailing, and Emmalee (Zachary) King; his siblings: Maurice (Tammy) Kailing, Tim Kailing, Mollie (Vaughn) Cook, Jill (Luke) Baumgardner, Jodi (Matt) Doxtater, and Erin (Mike) Dusenberry; his brother and sister in-laws, David (Kim) Dennis and Mary (Wayne) Snider respectively; grandchildren: Sofia, Eva, Liam, and Reyna; many cherished nieces and nephews, including his niece Rachel, who was like a daughter to him.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother-in-law Cris Dennis; and his in-laws, Keith and Faith Dennis.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church in Big Rapids, on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., with Father Jegar Fickel as Celebrant. Visitation will be held at the church on Tuesday, August 5th from 5:00-7:00 p.m., and again on the day of the service from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass. A private burial will follow. All are welcome to join the family at a luncheon after the burial at the Big Rapids Eagles 2535.
Those desiring may direct memorial contributions to St. Mary/St. Paul Catholic Church. Envelopes will be available at the church.
Joe’s life was a testament to hard work, faith, and selfless love for others. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
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