Joseph ‘Joe’ Omundson, a respected member of the Duluth community, passed away on February 18, 2026, at the Interfaith Care Center in Carlton, Minnesota. He was 86 years old. Born on August 8, 1939, to John and Alice (Hicks) Omundson in Minneapolis, Joe moved to Duluth at the age of eight, where he would spend most of his life.
Joe attended local schools, including Piedmont Elementary and Lincoln Junior High, before graduating from Denfeld High School in 1957. He served in the Army National Guard from 1962 to 1968, demonstrating his commitment to community and country.
After his military service, Joe began a long career as a sales representative at Georgia Pacific (Superwood), where he worked for 37 years before retiring in 1997. His professional demeanor and dedication earned him respect among colleagues and clients alike.
Family, Passion for Sports, and Community Involvement
Joe married Barb Hutchinson in 1976 at the First Covenant Church. Together, they built a family, which includes their daughter, Jody (Mike) Rademaker, and son, Joel (Rebecca) Omundson. He was proud of his twin granddaughters, Veronica Rademaker and Julia (Jon) Strong, as well as his two daughters, Mary Rose and Ashley Omundson, and five great-grandchildren.
Beyond his family, Joe was deeply involved in various community activities. He was a well-known hockey referee for high school and small college games and also umpired fast-pitch softball. His love for sports extended to running, as he participated in numerous races ranging from 5 miles to marathons. Joe also enjoyed downhill and cross-country skiing and took several motorcycle trips to Sturgis, South Dakota.
In addition to his athletic pursuits, Joe volunteered at the St. Louis County Jail and Bayview Elementary, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to giving back to the community. He was a member of several organizations, including the Masons, Enclid Lodge, Shrine, North Shore Striders, and the Harley Owners Group, reflecting his diverse interests and friendships.
Final Farewell and Community Support
Joe is preceded in death by his parents, brother William, sister-in-law Janet, and brother James. He is survived by his devoted wife, Barb, and his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, all of whom will miss his presence dearly.
Visitation will take place at the Cremation Society located at 4100 Grand Ave. in Duluth on Wednesday, March 18, from 14:00 to 16:00. A Masonic service will follow at 16:00, along with honors from the Duluth Honor Guard. Joe will be laid to rest at Oneota Cemetery.
The family expresses gratitude to all friends and relatives for their support during this difficult time. Special thanks are extended to the staff at Interfaith Care Center and St. Croix Hospice for their exceptional care.
