Service Details
PUBLIC visitation for Joe will be held in Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home on Monday, January 4, 2021 from 4:00 – 7:00 pm. PRIVATE family services will be held at St. Lucy Catholic Church on Tuesday.
You may witness the service livestream on Tuesday at 11:00 am, or afterwards, by clicking on the link https://youtu.be/hs-dMrCedL8 .
Memorial Suggestions
Memorials to Racine Montessori School, Bloomington, MN, Rotary Foundation (supports Nari Gunjan, an education charity in India), or Masses in Joe’s memory have been suggested.
Mount Pleasant – Joey “Joe” Gerard Luba, age 62, passed away unexpectedly as the result of a heart attack, while on a usual neighborhood walk, Wednesday, December 23, 2020. Just a couple of hours earlier, he attended mass at St. Lucy Catholic Church, where he received the gift of the Eucharist.
Joe was born in Racine on July 24, 1958 to the late Theodore and Joanne (nee: Menden) Luba. He attended the schools of St. Rose, Goodland and Starbuck and was a 1976 graduate of St. Bonaventure High School. He went on to earn his degree from UW-Superior, as well as a Master’s degree in Education from UW-Whitewater. On November 17, 2001 in Sacred Heart Catholic Church, he was united in marriage with the love of his life, Karen L. Peterson.
Joe taught and coached with Racine Unified School District, for many years, at McKinley, Mack Center, Dr. Jones and Walden; and also taught at Racine Montessori, retiring in 2018. Sharing his love of sports with others, Joe coached various soccer teams over the years, including his nieces’ RASA teams (The Wolves and “The mighty, mighty Racers”), and the Park Panthers’ varsity soccer at Washington Park High School. His former players have shared how he was a coach that saw them as people, and encouraged their academics and community work, as well as passionate play on the field.
With profound Catholic faith, Joe was a faithful member of St. Lucy Catholic Church. Among his interests, Joe truly appreciated being in the outdoors, especially taking long walks along the Lake Michigan lakefront and various parks. He also enjoyed gardening and playing board games with his wife, and always looked forward to attending major sporting events, such as the Rose Bowl. He often shared how much he appreciated the time spent traveling with his family. Annual trips to Camp Masala to end the school year were a tradition for them. Trips to India, the Rocky Mountain Mirror train trip, the national park road trip, his Father-Son trip to Louisiana, as well as trips to Canada, Arizona, and California were adventures that will live on in the hearts of his family. Above all, Joe was a loving husband and rockstar father, who spent every opportunity with his children. Karen, Yash & Grace were Joe’s world!
Surviving are his loving wife, Karen Luba; their adored son, Yash Noah Luba (age 17); their adored daughter, Grace Roopika Luba (age 15); sisters, Vicki (Frank) Jarosz, Terri (John) Tessmann and Cindy (Jim Collis) Tessmann; brother, John Luba; mother-in-law, Agnes Peterson; sisters-in-law & brothers-in-law, Paul (Lori) Peterson, Donna (Mark) Siegesmund, Ron (Dawn) Peterson, Joan (Jon) Frickensmith and Greg (Anne-Marie) Peterson; nieces, nephews, other dear relatives, former students / athletes, and friends – too numerous to mention all by name. Joey was greeted in Heaven by his parents, Ted and Joanne Luba; and father-in-law, Robert Peterson.
PUBLIC visitation for Joe will be held in Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home on Monday, January 4, 2021 from 4:00 – 7:00 pm. PRIVATE family services will be held at St. Lucy Catholic Church on Tuesday. You may witness the service livestream on Tuesday at 11:00 am, or afterwards, by clicking on the link located in Joe’s obituary on the funeral home website. Memorials to Racine Montessori School, Bloomington, MN, Rotary Foundation (supports Nari Gunjan, an education charity in India), or Masses in Joe’s memory have been suggested.
Special note of thanks to Mt. Pleasant Police & Fire Departments for doing everything in their powers in trying to save Joe’s life. May God bless all of you!
Kevin McCormick says
My sincere condolences to the entire Luba family. Joe was a fantastic person and a positive influence on me both personally and professionally. May God help you through this difficult time.
M.McKenzie says
So sorry to hear about Mr.Luba he was a great teacher one of my favorites. He really made sure i did what needed to be done graduate. God has gained a great angel. Praying for his wife,kids and family
Gail White, ex-sister in law. says
He truly was a kind and gentle spirit, I know he will be missed.
Kamaria says
Joe Luba!!!! You were such an inspiration and such a GREAT teacher. I’ll never forget our homegroup memories and the ways you encouraged me to “make my better my best”. You will be missed dearly. Sending all my love, prayers and condolences to the family.
Lee and Mary Jo Rallo says
Deep condolences on the loss of Joe. He was a Great Guy and will be wholeheartedly missed.
Brad and Jen (Ragan) Buffington says
I always thought the world of Joey. What a bright light!
Our deepest condolences to Joey’s family.
Jack and Lynn Landwehr says
Joe is on my list of “One of the Good Guys.” God, Family and Friends make up his legacy. Joe gave of his time and he always shared a friendly hello. He will be missed and remembered by all that knew him.
Rose Ann & Bye Zickus and family says
Joe was a amazing teacher friend and husband Dad . He excelled in everything. I love him and his family from the bottom of my heart. My whole family does. You will be missed.
Alena Fiala says
Karen,
My condolences to you and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you that you find strength during this time.
The Ruby's says
Joe was an amazing man, he was the kindest, and most genuine to everyone he met. He will be so missed by us, but especially myself [Brittany] who got the amazing opportunity to grow with him, take many trips to camp with my dad [one of his closest best friends] and other family/friends, spend time at packer parties, gained knowledge and so so much more as a result of Joe. I remember back in highschool when I wasn’t doing so well and had to attend the Mack center, Joe was there the morning I started to greet me and make sure I was ok, he was a big help in making sure I was taken care of there and graduated. I love you Joe and will miss you always. Rest in Heaven and watch over your family and friends!
Rose Ella Harmann says
Karen and family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time.
Karen,JJ and Jacob Morana says
My family and I are blessed to have known Joe and call him our friend. He was a kind, caring, patient , giving, God loving man. He was a family man who would do anything for his family and friends. He will be greatly missed. Sending our love and prayers to the Luba Family.
💕🙏💕
Dennis A. Thompson says
My prayers and condolences to the family. RIH Coach!
Anonymous says
My condolences to the Luba family. I was working at RMS when Yosh and Grace attended there. My own grandkids enjoyed PE when he was a wonderful addition to the RMS staff. He will be missed by many.
Debbe Burdick says
I knew the kids when they attended RMS. My grandson enjoyed PE with him there. He will be missed by many!
Terri Lynch says
Joe was my mentor during my first year of teaching at the Mack Center. He gave me confidence and advice when I needed it most. Sincere condolences to his family.
Laurie Gill says
Karen
My condolences to you and your family. Joe was a incredible person and touched many life’s with his positve demeanor. My kids nieces and nephews looked up to Joe . We enjoyed going on camping trips joe was are activity director the kids had so much fun with him. Joe will be sadly missed he left much to soon
Tammy Riesner says
I am so very sorry for your loss. Joe was a wonderful and kind person. He coached my son Brandon at Park for many years and was always well respected by his players and their families. My deepest sympathy.
LeAnn Porter says
Karen and family, my deepest sympathy. So sorry , far too young! May God be with you during these difficult days. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Peggy Seidel-Schmidt says
Joe was an awesome, thoughtful man. He coached my son at Park High and instilled in him what sportsmanship was all about. The lessons he taught have lived on with us to this very day. Sympathy to his entire family. Rest In Peace, Joe. I guess God needed a soccer coach. Blessings.
Jon Duchac says
THE JOURNEYS END
Do not fear my dear children I have left you for a time.
But this stairway to Heaven I need no longer climb.
I have reached the end and my journey is complete.
How long I’ve awaited our Heavenly Father to meet.
Our Lord greeted me Himself with wide, open arms.
Now finally I am free from all worldly harms.
Dry the tears from your eyes you need no longer weep.
I am safe here in heaven with our Lord now to keep.
Do not sorrow or grieve that my journey is done.
Take up where I’ve left for yours has just begun.
With Jesus at your side do not fear, doubt, or dread
what the future may hold or what might lie ahead.
I joyfully await the day when our Lord comes for thee.
Then together in heaven we always will be.
Until that time comes you will not be alone.
I will be at your side until our Lord brings you home!
Jon Duchac aka Duke
May your memory be eternal Joe
Eric Green says
Joe was truly like my coach. He believed in me when I was basically alone when I was middle school. Joe was honestly just one of those people who had this an amazing vibe. He became my gym teacher in my freshman year and to be honest he was just like my personal coach. Hearing about the news of Joe passing shocked me. It truly felt like losing a true friend. My condolences to the Luba family.
Rudy and Debbie Coca says
Farewell Dear Joe, We will never forget the good times when you played with Rudy’s soccer team in the Men’s soccer League which included men from the Racine and Kenosha Soccer area and played at Parkside. Rudy will never forget when you asked him to help coach the boy’s soccer team at Park. You were also well known and respected as an educator. Our sympathies are with your family. May you Rest In Peace.
James L. Neibaur says
I worked with Joe at the Mack Center. We were the same age so we enjoyed talking about the music, movies, and sports figures we grew up with. He was a kind and friendly man. My sincere condolences to his family.
Janet Eppers says
The world has lost a very special person.
Mike Stretti says
Dear Luba family, I am so sorry to hear about Joey’s passing. He and I were neighbors in the Oregon St/ Indiana St. I always remember how friendly we was to us and I also remember well Ted and Joanne. We haven’t been in touch in many years, but its sounds like he lived a wonderful life with a close family.
God Bless, Mike Stretti and family,
Dan Pederson says
So sorry for your loss. My wife Connie and I worked with Joe at Orth Real Estate and enjoyed are time together.
Mariclare Thomason says
Sorry for your loss! Our prayers are with you during this difficult time. Joe was a great guy.
Jim & Mariclare with Emily Thomason.
Diane Ballweg says
I am very sorry to hear about the passing of Joe. He was a great person who excelled at so many things. My prayers are with you, Karen and Grace and Yosh.
Janis andJoe Paonessa says
We are so sorry for your loss and the loss for all who knew and loved Joe. He was a kind, smart, interesting and thoughtful person, He will be missed. There will be a gift to Racine Montessori in his name.
Brian/Donna Duchac says
Forever in our hearts, my brother. Until we meet again! God’s speed.
Sam Firtko says
My condolences to Karen, Jash and Grace.
I really enjoyed the time I taught with Joe at Walden. He was a great mentor, colleague and mostly friend. He will be sadly missed.
Sierra Lomo says
I was in his first home group when he came to Walden and I really appreciated his warm tone in class every day. He was always upbeat and an advocate for students. His kindness and memory will live on and I’m thankful I had the chance to meet such a wonderful human.
Craig Faris says
The saying “Old teachers never pass, they go on living in the hearts of the thousands of students whose lives they have touched” has never been more true than with Joey Luba.
Cheryl Mueller (alto w CAS) says
Karen and family, you are in my prayers as you continue your life journey with Joe kept alive in your hearts. I know you trust God to be present with you to comfort you and give you strength. Receive my embrace virtually until CAS meets again.
Nick & Cindy Maragos says
My deepest sympathy to Joes family. I met Joe in late 1989 at Orth Real estate where we sold homes together. We became instant friends as I loved Joes zeal for life. As his career with unified took off it was clear that God had him in the right place where He could use Joes Love for kids, compassion and gifts to encourage all those he would come in contact with. When we would see each other from time to time around Racine many times our five minute hellos would turn into hour long conversations catching up. I will miss those GOD ordained conversations MY FRIEND, but will never be the same as a result of them. Saddened yet encouraged at the same time. John 3:16
Kasey O’Keefe says
Mr. Luba you were a beacon of light. and an angel!! You seen the good in everyone!! Often times you were left to work with people from disadvantage situations or broken backgrounds and always brought the best out in them!!
No matter what creed color religion sexual orientation or racial composition you treated everyone equally with respect and dignity. You were a world-class sports enthusiast and a born teacher. Thank you for taking the time to teach hundreds of kids that might’ve fell through the cracks of the system. You saved many lives in the process including my own.
I would have never graduated high school or continued my education to be come the recipient of 2 Degrees from a university without your insight tutelage and care.
To me you were a rockstar and a hero. Your soft approach and respectable demeanor was beloved by many. Thank you very much for always taking the time to speak to me throughout the years and your vast wisdom and guidance will always be in my heart. God bless you very much till I see you again!! To my hero thank you for equipping me with the armor poise and determination to go after my dreams. We will accomplish everything we sought out to with you watching & guiding from above. God bless your family may they be strong and always hold you dear and their hearts!!
I love you Mr. Luba
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for every single thing!!
You truly were the goat!!! Good skill indeed !!! Love always Mr. Luba let’s get it thank you !!!
Matt Maletis says
Joe will be greatly missed. Joe was a Mentor for me through my first work experience, soccer, coaching, teaching and Life! A true inspiration!
Bob McKee says
I cherish my memories of skiing, rollerblading, and working at the MACK after school program with Joe. The memories of our ski club trips to Indianhead Michigan are particularly vivid. All the chaperones would sit in the front of the bus except Joe who would sit in the back with the students some of whom were his soccer players, some were knuckleheads. He fit right in. On the slopes riding the chairlifts we’d see Joe flying down the runs followed by his posse of Park kids. He was like the Pied Piper. Everybody loved Joe and enjoyed being around him. Usually laughing and smiling and always positive. I saw another side of Joe helping him him with the MACK center after school credit recovery program where he ran a tight but relaxed ship. I witnessed him connecting with kids who often didn’t like school and had fallen short of credits. He help a lot of these “disaffected” kids get their diplomas. They not only respected Joe but saw him as a real ally. He made a big difference in a lot of kids lives not only in the classroom but on the soccer field. We will all miss Joe dearly.
Kristopher Harvey says
I went to Park and Joe was the head coach for Park Boys Soccer. He inspired players to try their best and to improve as much as they could. He was a great role model.
Sean Kennedy says
Dear Karen and Family,
I will always rememberJoe for his warm, friendly welcome to us at Camp Masala in St. Paul. Kindness and affirmation was my experience when we conversed. I see from reading above that Joe was the same sincere man in all his ventures in life.