MAIZE — Joseph ‘Joe’ Leonard Birzer, 81, of Maize, Kan., passed away in his home on March 1, 2026, on what would have been the 57th anniversary of his marriage to his beloved wife, Marilyn. Joe was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, known for his quiet strength, generosity, and lifelong ability to fix and build just about anything. Joe was born on Nov. 2, 1944, in Great Bend, Kan., to Catherine Wendel Birzer and Robert Birzer. He was raised in Ellinwood, Kan., alongside his four sisters: Bobbie, Judith, Donna, and Sandra. Growing up as the only boy in a house full of sisters helped shape his caring and steady nature. After graduating from Ellinwood High School, Joe served in the United States Air Force. While stationed in Wichita Falls, Texas, he met Marilyn Jo Bell. They were married on March 1, 1969, beginning a loving partnership that lasted a lifetime. Joe earned a degree in Electrical Engineering Technology from Kansas State University. He and Marilyn made their home in Harper, Kan., where they raised their two children, Corrinne and Jeremy. Joe worked as an Electrical Distribution Engineer, dedicating his career to serving his community. Joe had a lifelong appreciation for staying active and involved. He enjoyed cycling and swimming and was a hands-on, devoted father who was always present and engaged with his children. He also had a deep love of astronomy, often taking his children out to view the night sky. In retirement, he volunteered at Lake Afton Observatory, participated in the Kansas Astronomical Observers, and spent time at Make ICT, sharing his knowledge and love of learning with others. Joe was known for his willingness to help anyone in need, his knack for repairing anything, and his love of storytelling. He enjoyed gaining an understanding of how things worked and helping others do the same.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marilyn Bell Birzer; and his sisters, Bobbie Birzer Oberle and Donna Birzer Jones. He is survived by his daughter, Corrinne Birzer, and grandson Octavio Chiunti Birzer; his son, Jeremy Birzer, daughter-in-law Sandra Willson Birzer, and grandsons Brennan and Karsen Birzer; and sisters Judith Birzer Komarek and Sandra Birzer Choitz; and many extended family members and friends.

Memorial services will take place on Saturday, April 11th at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Ellinwood with Rosary at 10 a.m. and Mass starting at 10:30 a.m. followed by a graveside at Lakin-Comanche Cemetery, Ellinwood. A meal for family and close friends will follow the graveside service at St. Joseph Parish Center. Memorials are suggested to MakeITC of Wichita or Lake Afton Public Observatory in care of Minnis Chapel, PO box 246, Ellinwood, KS 67526.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Minnis Chapel

113 N. Main Street

Ellinwood, KS  67526

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, April 4, 2026