Johannes “Joe” Wanatee Sr.

TAMA-Johannes “Joe” Wanatee Sr., 77, of Tama, passed away Wednesday, March 27, 2024 at his home under the care of Iowa River Hospice. A Traditional Wake will be held Wednesday Evening, March 27, 2024 at the family home, 433 Red Earth Drive, Tama. Traditional Graveside Services will be held Thursday, March 28, 2024 at 2:00 PM at McIntosh Cemetery on the Meskwaki Settlement in rural Tama with Larry Lasley as speaker.

Johannes was born on July 18, 1946, on the Meskwaki Indian Settlement in rural Tama, Iowa, the son of Michael and Lyda (Wabaunasee) Wanatee Sr.

In 1973, he received his GED in Bismarck, North Dakota.

On November 2, 1966, he married Peggy Lasley in Tama, Iowa. Joe was a welder for many years and made and repaired many projects in the surrounding area. He enjoyed watching westerns, traveling and taking care of his yard. Joe loved to be around his children and grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife of fifty-seven years, Peggy of Tama; his brother, Michael Wanatee Jr.; his children, Johannes (Heather) Wanatee Jr., Jules Wanatee, Christopher Wanatee, Joleen Wanatee, Sondra Alas and Kayella (Fernando) Ornelas; ten grandsons; twelve granddaughters; seven great-grandchildren; and aunts and uncles.

Preceding him in death were his parents; siblings, Myron Wanatee Sr, Priscilla Potts, Oscar Wanatee and William Wanatee Sr.; and adopted brother, Gordon Lasley Sr.

The family would like to thank Tama County Public Health for caring for him.

Kruse-Phillips Funeral Home, Tama-Toledo is assisting the family with the arrangements.