Joseph William Mayew, 26, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 6, 2009, surrounded by his family and loved ones. The son of William Sr. and Marleen Mayew, Joe was born May 12, 1983, in Kenosha. Joe was a resident of Milwaukee and employed in management at Potawatomi Casino. Joe had a zest for life and was funny and charming. Above all, he was always concerned that people around him were happy before himself. He enjoyed the company of his friends, playing volleyball, trying new restaurants, learning anything new, and music. He loved spending time with his girlfriend, Tracy Dowell, and their two cats, Theo Bear and Grace. He will be sadly missed by his parents; his two brothers, William (Rebecca) Mayew Jr. of Chapel Hill, NC, and James (Stephanie) Mayew of Wilmington, NC; his sister, Christine (William) Elliott of Pensacola, FL; his niece, Peyton; two nephews, Will and Ian; aunt, Karen (Robert) Reich of Overland Park, KS; uncle, Jim Andreucci of Kenosha; and uncle, Gary Andreucci of Pleasant Prairie. Joe graciously donated his organs, the ultimate gift of life. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Wisconsin Humane Society, 4500 W. Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53208, would be appreciated by the family. Private memorial services were held, but please visit Joe’s online memorial book at www.prokofuneralhome.com.Proko Funeral Home & Crematory5111-60th StreetKenosha, WI 53144Phone: (262) 654-3533Visit Joe’s Online Memorial Book at:www.prokofuneralhome.com
Condolences
The Hansen-Spoull Family
Our heart felt prayers and sympathy go out to your family. May God hold you close and bring you comfort.
Natalie Hock
I am deeply sorry for your loss. Joe will be missed by all. He was a wonderful and caring guy and i am blessed to have met him and grateful that i was able to have shared many fun times with him. Joe, you will be in our thoughts forever!!!
Keith & Lynette
Dear Mayew Family & Friends, I can't truly describe the deep sadness and shock we are feeling. Joe, I would sometimes call him "JoMama" was so special in so many ways, what an extraordinary young man. To us he was handsome, witty charming, intelligent, caring, well mannered, - still holding a great sense of humor with his professionalism. We would have loved to have had a son like that. You must be so proud. Our deepest sympathy to you and your family. He will be deeply mist by all.Keith & Lynette
Billy Mayew
July 6, 2020
Joey - love and miss you buddy.
Debbie & Steve Frank
July 25, 2009
Dear Mayew Family-We are truly sorry to hear about your devastating loss. Please accept our sympathy, and know that all of you are in our prayers. Steve and Debbie
Lisa Sereno Droessler
July 25, 2009
I still picture Joey as this little 8 year old boy running around barefoot with the most mischievous grin... I can't even imagine what you've all been going through, but I hope time and memories will ease the pain. You've all been in my prayers since the moment I heard. I am so, so sorry for your loss!
Rick and Kathy Sereno
July 22, 2009
Dear Bill, Marleen, Billy, Jim and Chrissy,Our hearts are broken along with yours at the loss of your Joe. When Paul called to tell us the sad news while we were on vacation, we could hardly believe it was true. We'll always remember the fun times we had with Joe and all of you in our younger days, and how Joe's crazy ways kept everyone laughing. He always had an infectious smile that made you want to smile right back.We're keeping all of you in our thoughts and prayers during this sad time, but are so proud of the fact that your family has given the ultimate gift of Joe's organs to so many needy recipients. God is surely smiling on Joe.Love and peace,Rick and Kathy SerenoP.S. We've sent a memorial in Joe's name to the Wisconsin Humane Society because our three cats wouldn't have wanted it any other way.
Benjamin C. Dowell, Captain, US Army
July 17, 2009
Joe--You are a part of my family; I love you as a brother. I was not able to tell you this. You welcomed me home from Iraq, hardly having met me. You played Wii with my son and my Grandfather, at the same time, and loved every second. You enjoyed our Christmas mornings, barely receiving a gift. Tracy and you met Gwen and I at Centani’s, and made our new years of Dec 31, 2007 a hit. You had dinner at the cottage with me and ate every brat. We walked the Sturgeon Bay beach, and swim in the cool Lake Michigan waves. We hit golf balls into those same brisk waves, not caring who would retrieve them. We did not wake up in time to make our tee time, so what? I helped you move the cats from the apt on Wisconsin Ave; you picked me up at the Jazz Estate, when I could not drive. If I had a choice in who would date my sister, you would be the man; you cared for, and protected, her. You became a brother in my family, and you always will be.Love,Ben
Gerri & Don Mayew
July 16, 2009
Dear Marleen & BillAlthoughwe never had the pleasure of meetin Joe, everthing that we have heard about indicates that he was a fine and caring person.Parens are not suppose to have to bury their children. We have had far too many friends who have had to go through what you are suffering now. Because of these experiences we know how great your loss must feel to each of you. In these most trying of times pleas know that Joe and each of you are in our thoughts and prayers.Gerri & Don Mayew
Rex Penza
July 15, 2009
Dear Mayew family,I am stunned to hear this sad news. When Erik and I came to visit Billy or Jimmy I could always remember how much of a ball of fire Joey was. He always wanted to be involved in everything with us. We couldn't get a game of hoops or a whiffle-ball battle in without Joey jumping in wanting to put his two cents in.My deepest condolences,Rex Penza
Ryan Leach
July 15, 2009
I am so deeply sorry for your loss.Joe was my friend. He always made me laugh.He would come over to the house when I lived on 5th avenue and would always sneak up on my ma and scare her and she'd yell out and then laugh. Our family has fond memories with Joe. He will be missed.
Brandon Belott
July 14, 2009
Mayew Family-My heart goes out to you. I was Joe's Manager on and off for several years and I am proud to say our paths crossed. He was truly an inspirational young man in so many ways. He was driven, dedicated, and he left his impact on those of us lucky enough to say we knew him.He was the boost we all needed on a bad day and the guy who kept you from floating off into the clouds with his common sense. Its rare to find someone with both of these qualities, and it's safe to say we may not find it packaged together quite like Joe was ever again. We all miss him terribly.God bless your family in this difficult time
Marisa (Robinson) Trottier
July 14, 2009
Chrissy and family: I recently heard about Joey's passing and I can not imagine the grief and sorrow you are going through. I wish I had the right thing to say to help ease your pain or make this any better. Please know that I, along with many other people, are praying for you and thinking of you. Miss you. MARISA
Brian Beckstrom
July 14, 2009
I remember Joey as a little kid playing volleyball with us when we would come over to visit Billy. I'm very sorry for your loss and will keep you in my prayers.
Kim Maglio
July 14, 2009
My deepest sympathies go out to the Mayew family. Joe and I worked together as supervisors for about 3 years. Joe was such an amazing person who could brighten up any room! His personality and charisma can not be duplicated. I have so many great and funny memories of Joe, and I'm proud to have known him. Joe is greatly missed by his "family" at Potowatomi. We take it day by day, all telling funny or endearing stories about Joe, which is all there is to tell. He always lived every day to the very fullest, with a zest and fervor unmatched!! Joe was such an intelligent and caring person and we all loved him very much. Joe will be GREATLY MISSED!!!!
Lorina Towns
July 14, 2009
im sorry for your loss and want to express my deepest sorrow for your family. joe was my supervisor for a couple years now and i can truly say that the floor hasnt been the same without him. boy was he crazy!!! we had really good times on the floor and in preshift. "you got nothin, get on the floor." geez he's greatly missed. im still waiting for tuesdays preshift. just waitin on him to pop up and say i got all yall!!!
jane eck
July 12, 2009
i am so sorry about your loss.i worked with him at casino.he always shared his mozzarela sticks from the fire pit with me and was always smiling.i dont understand how someone so full of life and so vibrant can be taken from us. please know my prayers are with you in this time of sorrow,, there are so many people at the casino that are in shock over his loss. peace be with you.he will always be remembered..great young man.
The Chambers Family
July 12, 2009
May your family be comforted by the memories of happy times with your beloved son and brother, Joe. Roscoe, Althea, Darnell, Shakir, and Peppur Chambers
Mike Scuglik & Family
July 12, 2009
To the Mayhew family,Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family. We truely hope that everyone can gather strength and courage to endure through this difficult time. I'll always remember the Indian days with him as our bat boy and the memories we were able to create. Please accept our condolances.Sincerely,Mike Scuglik and Family (Amy, Samuel & Mia)
Ruth Matteucci
July 12, 2009
I'm saddened by the loss of Joe, some of my fondest memories from junior high and high school included him. What a truly great guy!! My deepest sympathies and prayers are with his family and everyone who loved Joe.
Nathan Sieger
July 12, 2009
Dear Mayew Family,My heart is broken for this tragic loss. I would like you to know that some of my fondest memories in my teens were of spending time both in and out of school with Joe. We played videogames, filmed home-made zombie movies and went to Great America together. His love of life was unparalleled and I will remember him forever for all the great times we had.Sincerely,Nathan Sieger (Or as Joe always said: "NAAATHAAAAN!!")
Kathy Kovach
July 11, 2009
Marlene & Family and Aunt Karen, My heart goes out to you and your families. I did not know Joseph, but I now that he comes from a terrific family. My prayers and thoughts are with you all. Peace be with you.Kathy KovachMarlene-Kenosha Joint ServicesKaren-Kindergarden-High School
Erin Bose
July 11, 2009
Dear Mayew Family,I'm so sorry for your loss. Joe was an amazing person that touched many lives. I haven't talked to him much since high school but I will cherish the many memories of him always. He had an ability to make anyone feel special when you were with him. He had the best sense of humor and the kindest personality. My heart goes out to your entire family during this difficult time.
Tiffany Carlino
July 10, 2009
Mayew family & loved ones- I am deeply saddened about the loss of Joe. He was truly an amazing and special person to me and many others. I am grateful to have been a part of his life as well as your family. His smile and laugh was contagious.....he had the greatest energy and was capable of making everyone around him smile. JoJo you will be missed immensely by all who knew you.
Dave and Penny Carlino and Family
July 10, 2009
Dear Mayew Family, We wanted you all to know how profoundly sad we are to hear of the passing of Joe. We will be praying for your family during this sad time. We have happy memories of Joe and his beautiful smile, as well as his wonderful ability to get along with everyone so well. He had a special gift with children and even our granddaughter Alyssa loved "JoeJoe" and still remembers him. Our deepest sympathy goes out to all of you.
Mary Breitenbach Manthei
July 10, 2009
To the Mayews and all of Joe's loved ones-I am so deeply sorry for your loss. I haven't known Joe for many years but the memories I have of him are very fond. His joyful spirit was infectious and he always knew how to make people smile...that is how I will always remember him. May he rest in peace.You will be in my prayers,Mary (Breitenbach) Manthei
Milt Dean
July 10, 2009
Dear Bill, Marleen, and family;I was so saddened to hear of the passing of Joe. As I send this message to you, I have a class picture taken outside of Prairie Lane School at the end of the year in my view. There is Joe in the front of the picture in all of his glory. I so enjoyed getting to know three of your children in my classroom, and Joe was such a delight to have as both a student and a friend. You know how attached I became to my students. It was always hard to let go at year's end. I have kept all of my gradebooks. There is Joe in the l994-95 book with all of his A's. He always gave me quality work. I especially remember how he and John Seiber, John Hubbard, and Mike Stockdale were always trying to outdo each other - especially in the realm of sports.I am so sorry for the pain and suffering you are presently enduring, Bill and Marleen. Sometimes there are just no answers. Jackie and I will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Joe left a lasting impression on me which will always be in my special memory bank. Please pass our condolences on to Bill, Jim, and Christy.Milt and Jackie Dean
Holly Marita
July 10, 2009
To the Mayew Family - I knew all of you extremely well and even though we've lost touch over the last few years, I thought about you frequently. I had the privilege to know/love an outstanding individual. He always put others first, brightened up the room and made everyone a better, more caring person. He will be sadly missed by everyone. Be strong and know that he is looking down on you and the rest of your family, still wishing happiness upon everyone. My family also sends their thoughts and prayers, especially during this time. Love, Holly Marita and family
Jessica Sturino
July 10, 2009
Like A CometBlazing 'Cross The Evening Sky Gone Too SoonLike A RainbowFading In The Twinkling Of An EyeGone Too SoonShiny And SparklyAnd Splendidly BrightHere One DayGone One NightLike The Loss Of SunlightOn A Cloudy AfternoonGone Too SoonLike A CastleBuilt Upon A Sandy BeachGone Too SoonLike A Perfect FlowerThat Is Just Beyond Your ReachGone Too SoonBorn To Amuse, To Inspire, To DelightHere One DayGone One NightLike A SunsetDying With The Rising Of The MoonGone Too Soon
Amber Reiherzer
July 10, 2009
I am deeply sorry for your loss. Joe truly was an amazing person and a joy to be around. I hadn't seen him much after high school, but when I did, it was always a great conversation. He made people want to be around him, he had such a great energy and the most endearing smile I've ever seen! I have such great memories of him from study hall and most importantly from volleyball. It truly was an honor to have both him and Chrissy part of my volleyball experience. I'm so sorry to both his friends and family.
Katie Brandalise (Conrad)
July 10, 2009
Mayew Family & Friends-I am so sorry for your loss. You are all in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Christopher Serpe
July 10, 2009
I am truly sorry for your loss. Joel was an amazing individual. He had a fantastic ability to make anyone smile and laugh. He will be greatly missed.
Brian Gruender
July 10, 2009
Mayew Family, I was incredibly sad to hear of your loss. Joe sounded like an outstanding young man. I am sure you were all very proud of him. My family's thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Take care - Brian Gruender.
Cindy Soens
July 10, 2009
I'm so sorry for your loss. May time help ease your pain. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Kathy Gruender
July 10, 2009
So sorry for your loss. It takes a while, but time does help heal. Kathy and Mark Gruender
Patrick Puhr
July 10, 2009
I am so sorry for your loss. I will pray for you all in this sad time.
Benjamin Trecroci
July 10, 2009
Dear Mayew Family-I am so sorry for your loss of Joey. Always remember him as the kid Jimmy and us guys would try our wrestling moves out on which of course he would never complain about unless we ended up making him cry ha. Ran into Joe a year or so ago and couldn't believe how grown up he was, guess time flies...My thoughts and prayers are with you guys.
John, Steve, Keith Burke
July 10, 2009
We are sorry for your lose. May God bless all of you. Rest in Peace Joe.
Chrissy Mayew
July 10, 2009
I guess God needed either a slot manager or a volleyball player for the All-Star team up in heaven! I'll be sure to keep your love for volleyball alive with every player I coach. I'll never forget the hours spent in the sand court playing 1 v 1... I guess all the plays that ended with "I swear to God" you can know check and see who's point it should have been LOL! Thanks for the time you gave me because I attribute much of my volleyball success to you!! I love you and miss you! xoxoxox for eternity! And of course, bless this food for it's nutrition :)
Bob & Michelle Scuglik
July 10, 2009
Dear Bill,Marlene & Family, Our hearts are aching for all of you. What a sad tragedy.We are in shock. You are all in our prayers and thoughts.If there is anything we can do for you please call.All of our love The Bob Scuglik Family
Crystal Rapinchuk
July 10, 2009
Joe was a great person. I haven't seen him since high school but will always remember his energy and love for life. He was a great volleyball coach too :) Joe, you will be greatly missed. Watch down on those who love you and miss you.
Jim and Linda Dowell
July 10, 2009
Dear Mayew family,There are no words to describe how devastated we are about losing Joe. For the past 3 years, we were lucky to get to know Joe very well because he was dating our daughter, Tracy. Over the years, we were able to see their relationship develope into love. They made such a cute couple, I couldn't resist taking lots of pictures when they were at our house getting ready to go out. Joe treated Tracy like a queen, they did everything together, we didn't worry as much about her in Milwaukee because we knew Joe would take care of her. We last saw Joe when he sat with us at Tracy's graduation in May. Joe was very proud of her, he was also proud of his accomplishments. He had just finished his first semester at MATC taking 18 credits while still working fulltime. About 2 years ago, Joe went to the Wisconsin Humane Society and get his beloved cat, Theo, a beautiful white and orange cat. Theo is now living with Tracy and her cat, Gracie.Joe spent the last 2 Christmases at our house, where he seemed like part of our family. I will miss his dynamic smile, his humor and his sweet nature. Our hearts go out to the Mayew family in their grief.Jim and Linda Dowell
Roberto Alvarez
July 10, 2009
Joe there are not that many people that can make me laugh but you sure did!!!!!!!!! You will be missed!!! Even though we were just acquaintances you had the charisma to look on the bright side!!!!! My condolences and prayers to your loved ones.
Brooke Andrew
July 10, 2009
I am so very sorry for the loss of Joe. My prayers go out to the family. I did not know Joe too well but what I did know of him was nothing but amazing things. He was just an overall wonderful person. He was very kind, genuine, friendly, and funny. He was someone more people should strive to be in life. He will be deeply missed and in our hearts forever!
Dan Pascucci
July 10, 2009
I am truly sorry to hear about your loss. I hadn't seen Joe in a while, but when we did bump into each other it was always good to see him. Joe was a good man that was taken away too soon. He is in a better place now and the family is in my prayers. Take care.
Cody Kaucic
July 10, 2009
To the Mayew family, and to everyone who loved Joe,The words to describe how sorry I am for your loss simply don't exist. To know Joe was to love him, truly, and I am honored and proud to be able to say that I was a friend of his. Cody Kaucic
Kyle Deaton
July 10, 2009
Mayew Family,I was so sorry to hear about Joe. We had such a great time growing up together. I will always remember Joe and the good times we had. He was a good person and he will truly be missed. All my thoughts and prayers are with you.Kyle Deaton
CHARMAINE ROBINSON
July 10, 2009
Marleen , Bill, Chrissy and family, Our heartfelt sympathy over the loss of your beloved Joe. There are no words to comfort you at this most difficult time in your life, but please know how much you all are in our thoughts and prayers. May God grant you the strength you will need in the time ahead. Marleen, I wish I could be there for you now like you were there for me when Rob was in his accident. I will be here if you ever want to call. I would love to hear what a wonderful young man your Joe was. Please send my love to Chrissy. You have a remarkable family. Again, we are deeply sorry for your loss. God Bless you. Love Charmaine and Rob Robinson
Kevin Deaton
July 10, 2009
Dear Mayew Family,Please accept my sincere condolences, I was shocked to hear about Joe. I can't say enough about the fond memories I shared with him growing up. I hope you can reflect on your memories you shared with him as I have this past week and smile. My thoughts are with you all.
Karin Svec
July 9, 2009
I would just like to express my deepest sympathy to Joe's family. I would also like to tell you what an honor it was to know Joe. To his parents,I would just like to tell you that you should be very proud of the son that you raised. He was quite a young man! He had so many great qualities,but I think what I enjoyed the most about him was his quick wit and sense of humor.No matter what kind of day you were having,Joe would always make it better. He treated everyone with respect and kindness,and if you were lucky, a little bit of his sarcasm! I worked with Joe,he was my supervisor,and although he was several years younger than me,I really did look up to him and admired him. I can only hope my 22 yr old son ends up to be half the man that your son was. There is such a sense of emptiness at work these last few days. Everyone who knew Joe loved him. I have seen grown men,who prior to this you might've thought had no emotions,crying these last few days. Along with the rest of us. His presence will be greatly missed by all of us whose lives were lucky enough to be touched by him. I cannot even begin to imagine the pain you must feel. God willing,I never will. Your family is in my prayers. God Bless.
Gary Wozny (440, Woz, Wozgar)
July 9, 2009
I met Joe about three years ago and ever since then we have been close friends. Every time we spoke, he said or did something stupid to make me laugh. That's just the kind of guy he was. He had a way of taking any dull situation and finding away to spice it up. My life will not be the same without him, I feel like I have lost a brother. Joe will be missed by anyone whoever had the pleasure of meeting him. “Put That Coffee Down”
Rob Scuglik
July 9, 2009
My condolences go out to the Mayew family and friends for your loss. I can remember Joey running around the baseball field during Kenosha Indians games when he was only 10 years old. God Bless him now that he is in a better place.
william harris (potawatomi security)
July 9, 2009
I only knew him for a short time, but every day that I saw him he had a smile on his face which made everybody's day brighter.
Pamela McClain
July 8, 2009
My condolences goes out to the entire Mayew family.Joe was my supervisor here in Milwaukee, i worked with him for a number of years. Its saddens my heart that i will never see his beautiful smile, i would tease him often saying he should be in Hollywood, he would just look at me and smile...Joe Mayew you will be deeply MISSED.. Pamela McClain
kim
July 8, 2009
I have not scene Joe in a while but wanted to say how sorry I am. he was an amazing guy and will keep him and his family in my thoughts and prayers.