JOSEPH STEDRONSKY

Funeral services for Joseph Grant Stedronsky, 96, of Wagner, were Monday, January 6 at the United Methodist Church. Burial was in the ZCBJ Cemetery, rural Wagner with military honors. Peters Funeral Home in Wagner was in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made in his memory.

Joseph Grant Stedronsky was born and lived his entire life in Wagner. He grew up with a deep respect for hard work, honesty and doing the right thing. These values would define his life. He was deeply dedicated to his family, his community, and his principles. Born July 1, 1928 to Ed and Helen (Pullman) Stedronsky, he was the oldest of four children and passed away on December 30, 2024, at the age of 96.

For 50 years, he worked at and was the proud owner of Stedronsky Brothers Hardware, a business started in 1902 that he inherited at his father’s passing in 1961. He took the path of his father and grandfather and became an important part of the community. Whether opening the store after hours to help someone find a part or simply lending an ear over the cash register, Joe treated every customer as a friend, earning a reputation as an honest man who could always be taken at his word.

When not at the store, Joe could often be found with a fishing pole in hand, enjoying the peace of the water and the thrill of the catch. Fishing was more than a pastime for him; it was a passion that brought him joy and clarity, often shared with loved ones who were lucky enough to learn from his patience and skill. He loved the Missouri River and periodic fishing trips with family to northern Ontario.

At the heart of Joe’s life was his deep love for his wife and best friend, Joann (Broz). Together, they shared 50 years of marriage and unwavering devotion, building a home filled with laughter, warmth, and countless memories. He was immensely proud of his children and as a father, Joe was a steady and supportive presence, always ready with quiet encouragement and a listening ear.

Education was important to Joe. He was class valedictorian in high school in 1946. He attended college at South Dakota State University earning a degree in economics and mathematics. In 1951, Joe received his draft notice and served in the United States Signal Corps in the Pentagon doing data and information processing.

A man of faith, Joe was baptized, confirmed, and was a lifetime member of the United Methodist Church. His steadfast faith and belief brought him a sense of peace as he grew older, always self-assured that he would be reunited with Joann.

Joe was a present member and past president of the Rotary club (64 years), served in the American Legion (71 years), was an active member of the Masonic Lodge (71 years), was a volunteer fireman (27 years), and served on the Wagner City Council (6 years).

Joe is survived by two sisters: Rose Marie Nedved and Franny (Lanning) Mollet; his children: Gregg (Kathryn), Grant (Julie), and Jill Rysavy (Rick); and his grandchildren: Adam (Gabi), Evan (Emma), Blake, Joseph, Daniel, Connor, and Ryan. He was preceded in death by his wife Joann, parents, and a brother Vernon Stedronsky.

He will be forever remembered for his unwavering kindness, his peaceful way of life, and the quiet strength with which he approached every challenge. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the values he instilled in his family and within the community.

'A life well lived leaves a beautiful memory.'