Joe Letke lived life in motion—usually fast, often outdoors, and often with enough risk to make those who loved him shake their heads.

Joe’s adrenaline bug tattoo said it all—he lived for adventure, he loved mountain biking, snowboarding, and skydiving. He was always planning his next adventure, project or new “toy.” He somehow transformed from a bachelor fun guy into a devoted “forced family fun guy”, creating years of camping trips, adventures and memories with the family he loved so deeply.

A master carpenter and craftsman, Joe was creative, smart and an incredible problem solver. He loved building things and figuring out how things worked. There wasn't much Joe couldn't fix. His answer to almost any idea or challenge was, “We can probably do that”. 

For 32 years, Joe was an active member of Narcotics Anonymous, where he helped and encouraged countless people. He genuinely cared about others and always had time to talk. Wherever he went, Joe seemed to know someone—and if he didn't when he arrived, he probably did when he left.

Joe was hilarious, witty, welcoming and a notorious prankster. He was a gifted storyteller with a uniquely Joe sense of humor and a smile that rarely left his face. He loved his Ravens, Maryland crabs with extra Old Bay, and Berger cookies with a huge scoop of peanut butter on top. Joe loved playing board games, most recently, Catan—although he really didn't like to lose.

Joe lived fully, worked hard, played hard, made people laugh and helped more people than he probably ever realized. His absence leaves an enormous space in the lives of those who loved him. Joe was a proud dog dad to Tilly and Squeegee. In addition, Joe was our cat, Ben’s strongest advocate. Supporting his family was always his greatest priority.

Joe is survived by his loving wife, Kim Letke; his daughters, Julia Letke and Jordan Letke; his mother, Joyce Carolyn Letke; his sister, Patricia Letke; and his brother, John Letke. He was preceded in death by his father, John Laurence Letke, and his beloved daughter, Kelli Letke.

A Memorial Service will be held at Grace Fellowship Church, 9505 Deereco Road, Timonium, Maryland 21093 on Saturday, September 26 beginning at 2 PM. A time of fellowship will follow the service, all are welcome. The interment will be private. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Joe’s memory to Young Life’s Men of Wisdom Ministry, a ministry that was close to Joe's heart. When donating using the link, please reference “Young Life – Men of Wisdom: http://giving.younglife.org/baltimorecity

Please share online condolences with the family by signing his guestbook through www.peacefulalternatives.com.