Joe Allan Gierke, 58, of La Porte, Indiana, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, August 2, 2026.

 

Born on December 26, 1967, in La Porte to John F.(Jim) and Judy (Rehlander) Gierke, Joe spent his entire life in the community he loved. A proud graduate of New Prairie High School’s Class of 1986, he recently enjoyed reconnecting with lifelong friends at his 40-year class reunion.

 

On April 26, 1997, Joe married Marti Ferrell, and together they raised two daughters, who remained the greatest source of his pride and joy. He dedicated many years of his career to New York Blower and was a proud member of the Teamsters Local #135.

 

Joe lived a life centered on service, generosity, and family. If someone needed help, Joe was there—often before they even had to ask. He believed in giving back and devoted more than 30 years to volunteering with the La Porte County 4-H Sheep Committee. When his daughters were growing up, he could often be found coaching their softball teams, cheering them on, and creating memories they will carry forever. Their mornings often began with Joe’s familiar call of, “It’s time to make the donuts!”—a simple phrase that became a cherished family tradition and one his daughters will forever hear in their hearts.

 

He was the kind of person who would truly give you the shirt off his back, expecting nothing in return.

 

Some of Joe’s happiest memories began in the kitchen alongside his mother. Those moments sparked a lifelong passion for cooking, and he became known for preparing meals completely from scratch. His homemade chicken and noodles, made from his mother’s cherished recipe, became a favorite among family, friends, and countless people he lovingly cooked for over the years. For Joe, sharing a meal was another way of showing love.

 

Joe also loved sharing stories. He had an incredible memory for family history and could spend hours recounting stories that kept generations connected. Whether he was visiting a local restaurant in La Porte, catching up with friends in Rolling Prairie, or offering comfort to someone at a funeral home, Joe never met a stranger. His genuine kindness, easy conversation, and caring heart made people feel like friends within minutes.

 

He also enjoyed collecting just about anything and everything that sparked his interest, but the things he treasured most were the relationships he built throughout his life. Joe leaves behind a legacy of generosity, hard work, laughter, and unwavering loyalty. His absence will be deeply felt by his family, his many friends, and the entire community that was fortunate enough to know him.

 

Joe is lovingly remembered by his mother, Judy Gierke; the mother of his children, Marti Ferrell-Gierke; his daughters, Madison (Colin) Schaible and Aubrey Gierke; his brother, John P. Gierke; his sister, Julie Gierke; his special nephew, Justin Hoke; along with several other nieces and nephews; his dear friend, Mark Condeni; the entire family of Erick and Tracy Keller; along with many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

 

He was preceded in death by his father, John (Jim) F. Gierke.

 

A Celebration of Joe’s Life, hosted by the Gierke family, will be held on Sunday, September 13, 2026, from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. CST, at the Rolling Prairie VFW (4202 N 400 E, Rolling Prairie, IN 46371).

 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to his daughters.

 

Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services.