Joseph M. Nies, 75 of Ontonagon, passed away August 19, 2015 after a lengthy illness.

He was born April 16, 1940 in Chicago to Joseph and Bernice (Siwek) Nies. On September 22, 1962, he married Sharon Kujanen in Republic, MI.

Joseph served in the US Navy and worked as a water quality engineer for the paper mill. He also worked at Michigan Tech for 10 years, and was later employed as a security officer at the paper mill and copper mine. Joseph's favorite activity was Shukokai karate; he was a 4th degree black belt. Along with George McGrath, he ran the White Pine Shukokai Karate Club for many years.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Ronald and Gerald.

Joseph is survived by his wife Sharon; son Earl; daughter Suzanne (Michael) Manninen; and grandchildren Lauren, Lainey and Matt. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Memorial Service for Joseph will be held Friday, September 25, 2015 at 2 p.m. at the Cane Funeral Home. Visitation will begin at 1 p.m. and continue until the time of service. A reception will follow at the Siloa Lutheran Church in Ontonagon.