Joseph James DeVreese

    Joseph James “Joe” DeVreese, 71, of Mishawaka, Indiana, passed away on April 17, 2026, in the city where he was born and dedicated his life to serving others. Born August 7, 1954, Joe’s life was defined by devotion to family, steadfast service to his community, and a warm, generous spirit that touched many.

    A Marian High School graduate, Joe excelled in baseball and basketball.  He began his working life at Dodge Manufacturing before answering the call to serve as a Mishawaka firefighter—a role he embraced with pride until his retirement in 2011. He treasured the privilege of protecting his hometown and counted his years at the firehouse among his proudest accomplishments.

    Joe gave generously of his time beyond his career. He led as President of the Home and School Association at St. Bavo School, coached youth sports—from Little League baseball to elementary boys’ basketball—and traveled nationwide to support his daughter’s softball pursuits. He was also a familiar presence at the local racetrack, cheering on his son Andrew and his nephew Tyler in the 88 and 24 stock cars. Whether at school events, the firehouse, or the stands, Joe offered steady encouragement and was always filled with pride.

    Family was his deepest joy. He and his wife, Debra (Cox) DeVreese, lovingly raised Nathan (Brandy) DeVreese, Claire (Jacob) Jozwiak, and Andrew (Lynley) DeVreese. He enjoyed time spent in his garage and delighted in displaying his children’s awards and accomplishments speaking of them with unmistakable pride. Joe also leaves grandchildren Lilly, Nolan, Gavin, Madilynn, Ella, Dylan, and Oaklee; nephew Tyler Roahrig; father-in-law Ronald (Judith) Cox; mother-in-law Agnes Cox; and many cherished friends and members of his firefighter family.

    He was preceded in death by his parents, Roger and Georgette (Van Hoedt) DeVreese; his brother, Paul DeVreese; and his close friend, Mike Watson. Joe will be remembered as a hardworking, caring, and community-minded man whose legacy of service and love will live on in the family and community he treasured.

    Friends may visit with the family from 2:00–6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at Hahn Funeral Home, 505 W. 8th Street, Mishawaka. A funeral service will follow at 6:00 p.m. Memorial contributions in Joe’s honor may be made to the Mishawaka Fire Department Survive Alive Program. The best way to do so is with a check written to the Fire Department , with the Survive Alive Program in the memo of the check .

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, please visit www.hahnfuneralhomes.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joseph James DeVreese, please visit our floral store.