Joseph “Joe” LaDow, age 84, of South Wayne, WI, passed away peacefully to be with the Lord on Monday, September 22, 2025, at SSM Health – Monroe Hospital in Monroe, WI. He was born on November 29, 1941, the son of Orlando and Annice (McKillip) LaDow. Joe grew up in the Argyle and Blanchardville area near Yellowstone Lake and attended Everson School. Joe was united in marriage to Helen Hammer on February 16, 1979, at the Green County Courthouse in Monroe.
Joe lived a full and hardworking life. He was an avid stock car racing fan, rarely missing a race unless it was raining or there was a family event. In his younger years, he enjoyed deer hunting and made sure he never missed a season.
Joe had a tireless work ethic and never liked to sit idle. Whether cutting wood, tinkering in the garage, or working on old cars, he was always on the move. He especially loved taking his 1965 Mustang to car shows, where he proudly earned many trophies.
Over the years, Joe kept himself busy with many jobs and ventures. He farmed, worked for Narveson Construction in Dodgeville, Iroquois Foundry in Browntown, and Dura in Stockton, IL—all while running his own roofing business. He often spent his days roofing and his nights working at the factory, a true testament to his dedication and determination.
Joe is survived by his wife, Helen; two children: Bobby LaDow of Beaver Dam, WI. and Billie (Derrick) Woodward of Sparta, WI.; two grandchildren: Avery and Caitlyn Woodward; his siblings: LaVerne LaDow and Lynda (Steve) Blum; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his siblings: Lois (Orville) Noble, Roy (Charlene) LaDow, Retha (Charles) Blackbourn, Jack LaDow, Mary (Frank) Skutt, and Terry and Helen, both deceased in infancy.
Per Joe's wishes, there will be no formal service, but a celebration of life will be held on November 29, 2025 from noon until 4:00 PM at the Village Inn in South Wayne, WI. The Erickson Funeral Home in Argyle is serving the family. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com.
