Joseph was born February 13, 1977 in Phoenix, Maricopa, Arizona. He was a life-long resident
of Arizona. He was an enrolled member of the Fort Peck Tribes of Montana. His heritage
included Sioux, Assiniboine, Hopi, and Mohave tribes with a touch of French and Irish. He was
a baptized member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Joseph is survived by Laura Herrera, companion of 28 years, Lucian J. Red Elk (son), Lilliana I.
Red Elk (daughter), parents: Gerald R. Red Elk, Muriel N. Red Elk, brothers: Daniel L. Red Elk,
Matthew S. Nachie and sisters: Angela L. Red Elk Kingi, Lindsey B. (Red Elk) Phan. Joseph
was truly a middle child with 2 elder sisters and 2 younger brothers.
Joseph attended North High School in Phoenix, Arizona. He worked in the commercial
concrete construction trade as a concrete technician. He has also worked as a framing
assembler for residential houses.
Joseph was a self-taught artist and enjoyed sketching in pencil and ink. He enjoyed listening to
music by a wide variety of artists and genres, like ABBA, Taylor Swift (yep, Taylor Swift) and
rap. He had a quirky sense of humor and was known to tell tall tales and tease members of his
family. He once told a niece that the scar on the back of his hand was from his mother
swatting him with a broom. Fact: his mother used a wooden spoon, on his bottom and never
left scars. The scar was obtained from a motor vehicle accident that occurred while in his
teens. He had a strong sense of service to others. He would not hesitate to step up to help
those who were in need, whether it involved roadside assistance, financial assistance or
physical labor. He was always willing to give his time and effort.
Joseph, beloved son, brother, uncle, life companion, father, friend and co-worker will be sorely
missed. All throughout his life, he maintained a hope and faith in Jesus Christ as his Savior and
Redeemer. Rest in peace.
Those who wish to make donations may do so via: Zelle - [email protected] or
Venmo - @laura-herrera-42.
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