Joseph "Joe" Karnof

Joseph "Joe" Karnof, a devoted husband, United States Navy veteran, and a longtime resident of North Manchester, Indiana, passed away peacefully on April 28, 2026, at the Peabody Healthcare Center in North Manchester. He was born on May 22, 1954, to Stafan and Nellie Anne (Miedema) Karnof in Watertown, South Dakota.

Joe graduated from Twin Lakes Senior High School in 1972 and then furthered his studies at Mid Plains Vocational Technology, earning an Associate Degree in Applied Science and Data Processing.

Following his formal education, Joe proudly served his country in the United States Navy. After four years, Joe was honorably discharged, he continued his connection with fellow servicemen and women as a member of the American Legion Post 286 in North Manchester.

Upon settling in North Manchester, Joe embarked on his civilian career at Woodcraft Furniture Factory in North Manchester. After the fire, he found employment at Transwheel Corporation in Huntington, Indiana, where he worked diligently until his retirement in 2011.

On December 5, 1980, Joe married Sheri Hein. Over the course of their forty-six years together, the couple built a life centered on love, simplicity, and mutual care. They found joy in the everyday pleasures of home life, accompanied by their cherished fur babies. Joe took great pride in tending his vegetable garden and maintaining their outdoor space, crafting many planters and a brick patio to beautify their home. Sheri complemented this devotion by nurturing her flower garden, creating a harmonious and nurturing environment for both.

Known for his wit and his sometimes-ornery humor, Joe was generous with his time and kindness, always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. His warmth, humor, and steadfast character left an indelible mark on those who knew him.

The loving memory of Joseph “Joe” Karnof will be forever cherished by his wife, Sheri Karnof, North Manchester; siblings, Gerald “Jerry” Karnof, North Manchester, Lois (Barbara Walter) Karnof, North Manchester and Jean McVay, Lafayette; many nephews, nieces; five great-nephews and three great-nieces; two great-great-nieces; and many aunts and uncles. Joe was preceded in death by his parents.

The family of Joe Karnof will grieve privately. Burial will be held at Marion National Cemetery in Marion, Indiana.

The family of Joe Karnof has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.