Joseph Allen Updike

June 21, 1973 – August 12, 2026

Joseph “Joe” Allen Updike, 53, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 12, 2026.

Joe was born on June 21, 1973, in La Crosse, Wisconsin, to Doreen Thompson.  He graduated from Holmen High School in 1992 and went on to build a career in meat marketing, working at many grocery stores throughout the years. Most recently, he worked at Hansen’s IGA in Sparta. Joe was always a kind, caring, and outgoing person. He had a special love for animals, especially his cats, who brought him great joy.

A passionate sports fan, Joe attended many Milwaukee Brewers games and faithfully cheered for the Minnesota Wild, Milwaukee Bucks, Wisconsin Badgers, and Green Bay Packers. He especially enjoyed spending time with family and friends watching games, whether together at home in front of the big screen or cheering from the stands.

Joe also had a passion for music. You could often find him enjoying karaoke night or singing along to some of his favorite songs. He loved to travel as well, making many memorable trips to Las Vegas with family and friends.

Joe is survived by his beloved wife, Connie Updike; his children, Addison “Addi” Updike and Allen Updike; his mother, Doreen (Pete) Thompson of Holmen; his father, Scott (Linda Kohls) Jungen of Onalaska; his mother-in-law, Ardella Swenson; his brothers, Jeff (Kristie) Jungen of Holmen, Bret Herold of Holmen, and Matt (Sarah) Thompson of Holmen; his sisters, Sophie (Bradey) Schleis of Holmen, Molly Thompson of Arizona, Sara Thompson of Arizona, and Katie

Thompson of La Crosse; his brothers-in-law, Duane Swenson (Kathy) and Terry Swenson; as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and countless friends. He also leaves behind his best friend, Tim Schultz.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Jim Updike; father-in-law, Basil Swenson; maternal grandmother, Helen Miller; grandfather, Henry Hove; sister,

Annie Funmaker; aunt, Doris Wateski; and cousins, Jason Johnson, Alan Keller, Bobby Wateski, and Deanna Hove.

Joe will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His kindness, laughter, love of music and sports, and the memories he created with those around him will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

His Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, August 22nd at the Holmen Legion from Noon until 5:00 pm.  Coulee Region Cremation Group is assisting the family.