Joseph Matthias Kouba, age 75, of Wyoming, Iowa passed away at home on September 30, 2026.

Joe was born August 20, 1951 in Anamosa, Iowa, the son of Joseph H. and Emma (Brodersen) Kouba. He attended Midland Community High School and graduated in 1969. He was united in marriage to Mary Ann Lasack on February 14, 1981 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Oxford Junction, Iowa.

After high school in February of 1971, Joe was drafted into the Army. He served in Germany and earned the National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and Army Commendation Medal. He was discharged from active duty November 1972. Joe received his Honorable Discharge in February of 1977. He joined the American Legion Post 259 and was a member for 52 years, earning his 50 year service pin in 2024.

Upon returning home, Joe worked alongside his father on the family farm. Farming was his passion. He raised beef cattle, hogs, and crops. Joe was a talented and skillful man being a craftsman in many different areas. He could repurpose anything for new use and extend the life of any item. He also took great pride in building and repairing equipment plus supporting fellow farmers in the community. Joe would always answer the call when someone else was in need and this generous way made Joe someone we could always rely on. Later on, Joe enjoyed grain farming and slowly retiring so Matt could take over the family farm.

Joe was a faithful and enthusiastic auction goer. His favorite past time was finding treasures. When something needed to be fixed or replenished, Joe was always on the lookout for a "good" deal. He aimed to better the farming operation and also serve anyone who called looking for a certain item. Finding these items gave Joe an opportunity to work on projects and form lasting relationships.

He left a memorable impression with the stories he shared with everyone and never met a stranger. His gift for conversation is something we will all miss.

Joe is survived by his wife, Mary Ann; son, Matthew Kouba; daughter, Kristine Kouba (Robert) Nelson; his beautiful granddaughters, Emma Ann and Josie Lane Nelson; cousins, Gary Weber, LeAnn Winger, Sherry Scott, and Richard Kouba; step-sisters, Judy Nelson and Jeanne Kula; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Mike and Madonna Lasack; nephew, Wayne Lasack; and niece, Carrie Holub.

He is preceded in death by his father and mother, Joseph H. and Emma Jean Kouba; infant brother; cousins, LaVonne Blandford, Linda Purcell, and Sue Ford; step-mother, Vi Kouba; and step-brother, Kenneth Hodgden. He is also preceded in death by numerous aunts and uncles.

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life for Joe will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Midland Ambulance.

Joe will be missed by many people whose lives he touched. May he rest in everlasting peace.

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