Joseph Henry Tetreau, Jr., a beloved father, grandfather, brother and friend, passed away peacefully on February 5, 2026, surrounded by his loving family in Augusta, Michigan. Born on January 25, 1948, in York Beach, Maine, Joseph touched the lives of many with his patient, hardworking, and upbeat demeanor. He was easygoing and selfless, often giving to others without hesitation.

Joseph earned two associate degrees, one in Forestry and the other in Park Management. These studies complemented his passionate love of God’s nature. He began his career as a Timber Buyer for Buskirk Lumber and then Hardwoods of Michigan. Each company valued and respected Joe’s broad knowledge and expertise at purchasing “marketable” trees after scouting out landowners’ wooded properties; Joe’s competitive nature earned him the title of top buyer many times. One time Joe was asked to appear to some elementary children to talk about trees. He amused and impressed both teacher and students when he correctly identified the tree species by smell of the leaf when blindfolded.

A Navy Veteran, Joseph served his country with honor and pride. His commitment to service extended beyond his military years. He was actively involved with the Knights of Columbus and various youth groups within the Catholic church. He also coached baseball and assisted with Boy Scouts during his son Joey’s upbringing.

In his leisure time, Joseph cherished moments spent at the cabin he built on 50 acres in Lawrence, MI. There, he found joy in hunting, fishing, and building cabins. It is no surprise that in Joe’s love of the outdoors, he gained joy in hiking, canoeing, cross country and downhill skiing, and even scuba diving. Joe rarely got lost…in the woods, on land or underwater. He liked to refer to himself as “The Pathfinder.” Joseph also enjoyed traveling and occasional visits to the casino. In his later years, Joe began journaling his life story for his granddaughter Olivia. He filled up over 20 spiral notebooks and had honest advice for Olivia along the way. His joy and love of life were vastly evident throughout! Joe’s writings will be cherished for many years to come.

Joseph is survived by his daughter Julie, granddaughter Olivia and a host of family and friends who will miss him dearly. He is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Henry and Marie Ann “Louise” (Foster) Tetreau, and his beloved son, Joseph “Joey” Tetreau.

Joseph will be remembered fondly for the small cabin he lovingly built for his granddaughter to play in, a testament to his caring nature and the special bond he shared with Olivia. He loved spending time playing with her and teaching her as much as he could, bringing her animals or things from nature from his walks in the woods, and journaling so she could remember her Grandpa Joe for years to come. His legacy of kindness, love and laughter will continue to resonate, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew him.

A Memorial Mass in honor of Joseph will be held on February 20, 2026 starting at 10:30 AM, with a luncheon following, at St. Ann Catholic Church, located at 12648 E D Ave, Augusta MI. 49012. Private family internment will take place at Maple Grove Cemetery in Mattawan, MI. In memory of Joseph, memorial contributions may be made to the Michigan Forest Association https://michiganforestassociation-bloom.kindful.com/