Joe Hetzel

Joe Hetzel, a generous, humorous, and cherished soul, passed away unexpectedly on April 10, 2025, at the age of 67. Born on August 26, 1957, in Reedsburg, Wisconsin, Joe was the second youngest of seven children to Louis and Josephine Hetzel. He was raised in Plain, Wisconsin, where his hard-working ethics grew.

Joe married Diane Durst on September 22, 1979. They shared a wonderful 45 years of married life in Madison highlighted by his two children and two grandchildren, travel and many rounds of golf.

Joe was a proud member of the carpenters union for over 25 years. Utilizing this knowledge, he "retired" to focus on managing and maintaining the apartment buildings he and Diane own in Madison. Joe was such a great handyman and could fix darn near everything.

In 2008, Joe and Diane bought their first home in Glendale, Arizona, where they enjoyed escaping the Wisconsin winters.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Diane, their son, Scott (Kara and grandsons: Ryder and Maddox), their daughter, Aimee Fischer (Josh), his sister, Marge Brantmeyer, many nieces and nephews, and very special friends. Joe was always a "Dad" to Kara and Josh.

He was preceded in death by his parents and five siblings, Fred, Mary Lou, Alice, Jerry and Anthony, and his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Rosemary and Bernard Durst.

Joe was an avid golfer ever since joining the River Valley High School golf team. He taught his passion for golf to Scott, and many competitive rounds were played together. The celebratory Fireball for a birdie just won't be the same without Joe.

Joe and Diane traveled extensively, embracing every adventure that came their way. Joe's niece, Sue, and her husband, Tom, shared many of these travel adventures with them. Enjoying life to the fullest, spending time with family and friends, and sharing a special sense of humor with his daughter, Aimee, brought him joy and joy to those around him.

Joe's unexpected death occurred while doing what he loved, spending an evening out with Diane and friends. A celebration of life is pending. Those interested are encouraged to check back for details.