Joseph ‘Joe’ Omundson Passes Away at 86, Leaving Lasting Legacy

URGENT UPDATE: Joseph ‘Joe’ Omundson, a beloved 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, in Minneapolis to John and Alice (Hicks) Omundson, Joe made an indelible mark on his community throughout his life. He moved to Duluth at the age of 8 and graduated from Denfeld High School in 1957. Joe served in the Army National Guard from 1962 to 1968, showcasing his commitment to service.

After a remarkable career, Joe retired in 1997 from Georgia Pacific (Superwood), where he worked as a sales representative for 37 years. He married Barb Hutchinson in 1976 at the 1st Covenant Church, and together they built a life filled with love and community engagement.

Joe was not just a family man; he was also deeply involved in various organizations. He was a member of the Masons, Enclid Lodge, and Shrine, as well as an avid participant in the North Shore Striders and Harley Owners Group. His passions included officiating hockey games for high schools and small colleges, umpiring fast-pitch softball, and competing in races ranging from 5 miles to marathons. Joe loved the outdoors, enjoying downhill and cross-country skiing, and embarking on motorcycle trips to Sturgis, South Dakota, and Mexico.

His community spirit extended beyond personal interests. Joe volunteered at the St. Louis County Jail and Bayview Elementary, leaving a positive impact on those around him. He is survived by his wife, Barb, daughter Jody (Mike) Rademaker, son Joel (Rebecca) Omundson, and five great-grandchildren, along with twin granddaughters Veronica and Julia (Jon) Strong.

A visitation will be held at the Cremation Society, located at 4100 Grand Ave., Duluth, MN, on Wednesday, March 18, from 2-4 PM, followed by a Masonic service at 4 PM with the Duluth Honor Guard in attendance. Joe will be inurned at the Oneota Cemetery.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to all friends and family for their support during this difficult time, with special thanks to the dedicated staff at Interfaith and St. Croix Hospice for their compassionate care.

This tragic loss resonates deeply within the community, as Joe Omundson’s legacy of service, love, and dedication will be remembered for generations to come.