Joseph Martin Vondrash, 91, of Allegan, MI, passed away Thursday, November 7, 2024. Born on September 8, 1933, in Chicago, Illinois, he was the son of the late Ester (Kujawa) and Joseph Martin Vondrash. Joe graduated from Lindblom High in Chicago in 1952. There he met his school sweetheart Eleanor Kahn. They were married 54 years. They raised six kids. Joe started his work career as a union carpenter apprentice at Clearing Industries in Chicago. He worked there for 15 years. Then he moved his family to Michigan.

Joe and Eleanor bought a farm in Allegan. That led them to a love for growing. Joe built greenhouses and Eleanor ran the operations. Valley Fruit Farm and Pedal Pusher. They were one of the first growers starting the Holland Framers Market in the 70's.

Joe worked for many construction companies in Holland such as Elzinga Volker, Lakewood, SDH and others. He was superintendent that built many church projects such as Day Break, Victory Point, Ridge Point, Haven Christian Reformed and the Western Theological Seminary. Joe also built the Waukazoo Elementary, West Side Elementary and the Royal Park assisted living homes.  One of Joe's best stories was when he met Muhammad Ali while working on the addition at Herman Miller in Zeeland.

Some of Joe's life-long interests were classic cars. His favorites were the Model A and Ford Model T.  Joe was a loyal Chicago sports fan. His teams were the Bulls and Bears. He also played a mean chess game with family and was hard to beat.

Joe and Eleanor had lake property on Miner Lake. They sold and bought a place at Sandy Pines to be near their children and grandkids.

When Eleanor passed away, Joe filled his retirement years helping family. He started making jam and pickles that he sold at Sandy Pines flea market. He made over 10,000 jars.  Joe was known for smoking a corn cob pipe with Borkum Riff Whiskey tobacco and making regular trips to his favorite place, Corky's drive-in for hot dogs.

Joe's proudest accomplishment in life was his family. He loved his children most of all. Joe will be remembered for his charm, intelligence, and likeability. Our beloved father will truly be missed. He leaves a treasure chest of memories for all.

Surviving are his Children: Victoria Montgomery, Lorinda (Terry) Emelander, Joe (Barb) Vondrash, Patrica Klingenberg, Robert Vondrash, John Vondrash; Grandchildren: Jack Emelander, April (Ryan) Powers, Martin Montgomery, Terry (Beth) Emelander Jr., Mandy (JD) Boyd, Missy Emelander, Zoe Vondrash, Chad Klingenberg, Kelly (Brent) Carter, Robert Vondrash Jr, Amber (Matt) Brents; and Great Grands.

Thanks to Wings of Hope Hospice and Country Estate for such great care.

A celebration of Joe's life will take place at Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel, on Friday, November 15, 2024 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Refreshments will be served.