Joseph “Joe” Alan Burtleson, age 78, of Cedar Ridge, Iowa, passed away peacefully at his home on October 19, 2025, surrounded by his loving family after a brief battle with lung cancer.

Born on February 3, 1947, in Des Moines, Joe was the son of Harold and June Burtleson. He grew up on a small family farm, where he learned the value of hard work, kindness, and a well-timed joke. After high school, he proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. When he returned home, Joe spent over 40 years as a mechanic, known around town as the man who could fix anything with a wrench, some duct tape, and a smile.

In 1971, Joe married his high school sweetheart, Linda (Meyer) Burtleson, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and countless fishing trips. Joe loved grilling on warm summer nights, cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes, and telling stories that grew taller with each retelling. His greatest joy, however, was his family—especially his grandchildren, who adored his humor, hugs, and secret stash of peppermints.

Joe is survived by his wife of 54 years, Linda; their three children: Mark (Tina) Burtleson of Ankeny, Laura (Rick) Hoffman of Cedar Ridge, and Paul (Kara) Burtleson of Sioux City. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren: Emma Hoffman, Jack Hoffman, Mia Hoffman, Ethan Burtleson, Grace Burtleson, Owen Burtleson, and Lily Burtleson; along with two great-grandchildren. Joe is also survived by his sister, Carol Dunn of Omaha, and many nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Raymond Burtleson.

A celebration of Joe’s life will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Cedar Ridge Community Church, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made to the American Lung Association or the Cedar Ridge Veterans Honor Fund.

Joe’s family takes comfort in knowing that somewhere, he’s got a fishing pole in hand, a cold lemonade by his side, and a story ready to tell.

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