Joseph Sterling

Joseph D. Sterling, 62, Browns Valley, passed away Tuesday, February 3, 2026, in Sioux City, IA.

Celebration of Life will be May 30th, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the American Legion in Browns Valley. Graveside services will be held at Calvary Cemetery in Browns Valley following the Celebration of Life.

Joseph Duane Sterling was born September 16, 1963, to Duane and Mary (Hibbard) Sterling in Chippewa Falls, WI. He was baptized at Notre Dame Catholic Church in Chippewa Falls and confirmed at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Eau Claire, WI. Joe was raised in Eau Claire and attended North High School in Eau Claire. After completing his education, he entered the United States Navy.

In 2005, Joe met the love of his life, April, and they were married on September 16, 2008. Together, they created a blended family that he stepped into with grace and patience. What began as two separate paths became one journey and he took pride in the family they became that brought him immense pride and joy. Joe loved driving truck and was a truck driver for 40 years, working for various companies throughout his long career. He was known for his strong work ethic, reliability, and the countless miles he traveled with steady hands and a steady heart.

Joe loved his family unconditionally; he never hesitated to show his love, often speaking of how grateful he was for the family they built. He especially loved the role as Grandpa; he was deeply proud of his faith and would share with anyone that was interested in listening. He loved spending his time at home with his family, he loved hunting, riding his motorcycle, and date night. Joe could strike up a conversation with anyone he met. His warmth, openness, and ability to connect with people were among his greatest gifts.

Survivors Include his loving wife April; children Dustin (Brooke) Sterling, Shanti Perry, Chelsea (Terry) Sterling, Kassidy (Brandon) Farpella, Aaron (Monique) Sterling, Abel (Sammy Arocho) Perry, Delilah (Hayden Hemmah) Perry, and Deja (Bradon Keith) Perry; grandchildren Addilyn, Connor, Olivia, Bailey, Raelynn, Erika, and Lennyn; sisters and brothers Marybeth (Dennis) Berry, Kathy (Steve) Machnik, Michelle (John) Buss, Matt Sterling, and Josh (Melissa) Sterling; 4 brothers-in-law and 3 sisters-in-law. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews who loved him dearly.

Joe was preceded in death by his father Duane Sterling; maternal grandparents Glenn (Mary) Hibbard and Keith (Ann) Sterling; and mother-in-law Annette Adams. He joins in heaven many cherished relatives who welcomed him home.