Joseph Coloton Byrne

Joseph Coloton Byrne, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2026, at the age of 88, in the care of loving family.

Born on June 15, 1937, in Minneapolis to William and Marion (Bea) Byrne, Joe grew up in Southwest Minneapolis a block from Lake Calhoun. He graduated from DeLaSalle High School and, as a young man, worked for Minneapolis Parks & Recreation and the Minneapolis Star Tribune newspaper. He enjoyed the city's parks, the lake, and sailing.

After completing a two-year business degree, Joe began a long and successful career in the insurance business, ultimately retiring as a partner at The Insurance Mart. He could also be found regularly at Cabin Fever Sporting Goods in Victoria, MN, a business he proudly owned with his sons, Jeff & Chris.

On February 13, 1959, Joe married the love of his life, Joan Gerber. Over the next 66 years they built a life grounded in love, faith and family. Together, they raised four children who will forever be grateful for his love and support. Joan passed away recently, on May 12, and the family takes comfort in knowing Joe and Joan are reunited in Heaven.

In retirement, Joe and Joan enjoyed traveling and discovering new places, eventually spending many peaceful winters in Sun City West, AZ. Family was always at the center of their lives. They regularly hosted holiday and birthday gatherings where everyone was welcome. For several years, Joe stopped by his mother-in-law Julia's home each morning to check in, share coffee, and enjoy baked goods. Joe and Joan rarely missed a school or athletic activity for their children, grandchildren, or great grandchildren.

Joe was actively involved in his community and received Maple Grove's Volunteer of the Year Award. He was a founding member of St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church and served on the Maple Grove Parks & Recreation Board for 14 years during the city's transformation from gravel roads to the vibrant, park-filled community it is today. He was also an active member of the Maple Grove Lions and oversaw charitable pull tabs at several establishments for many years.

Joe is survived by his four children: Chris Byrne (Robin), Greg Byrne (Colleen), Jeff Byrne (Renee), and Kim Poganski (Rick).

His grandchildren include Aaron (Stephanie), Aidan (Rachel), Chelsea, Charlie (Sara), CJ (Ashley), Brittney (Jon), and Austin (Kari).

His great‑grandchildren are Thea, Elle, Isaiah, Joslyn, Loral, Ryker, Kinzley, Colter, and Stella.

He was preceded in death by his wife Joan, parents William and Marion (Bea), brother James, sister Mary (Weyrens-Tasto) and daughter-in-law, Pam Byrne.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday June 23, 2026, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church, 7180 Hemlock Ln N, Maple Grove, MN 55369. Visitation will take place from 10:00-11:00 AM.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Havenwood Senior Living Community and Covenant Living for the care, support, and compassion they provided to both Joe and Joan.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Maple Grove Lions, Maple Grove Parks & Recreation Board or St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church.