Obituary
Joshua Andrew Bliss
Joshua Andrew Bliss, 42, of Onalaska, WI, passed away peacefully in his home on Monday, June 1, 2026, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous four-year battle with cancer. He endured all possible treatments while keeping a positive attitude.
Josh was born in Janesville, WI to Maripat Bliss. He had one sister, Jennifer Bliss. He grew up in Beloit, WI and after graduating from Turner High School, he went on to earn his associate’s degree in culinary arts at Blackhawk Technical College in Janesville, WI.
Josh and Joni met in culinary school, and for Josh it was ‘love at first sight’ as he would say. They were happily married for 18 years and had one daughter, Fiona, who was his greatest joy.
He worked as a conductor for the BNSF Railway for 20 years and was active in the BLET Union.
Scouting was a very important part of Josh’s life starting at an early age. He advanced through the scouting ranks to earn his Eagle Scout badge while in Troop 608. Through his involvement in scouts, he lived the Scout Law by being: Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, Kind, Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty, Brave, Clean, and Reverent. His scouting adventures took him to many places including Tesomas Scout Camp, Philmont Scout Camp, New Mexico, and Florida Sea Base. Most recently Josh served as Assistant Scoutmaster for Troop 91 in Holmen, WI.
Josh’s passion was long-range shooting and whenever he could, he would go out and shoot. He enjoyed bee keeping as well. Even while getting stung at times, he found it therapeutic and relaxing. He labeled his honey “FI’s Bees” in honor of his daughter Fiona. He also enjoyed building with his hands various woodworking projects and household repairs. Finally, he collected coins throughout the years and shared this hobby with his daughter Fiona. Most importantly, he accepted Jesus as his Savior, and we know for sure that he is in Heaven with Him.
Josh will forever be remembered for his warm, genuine smile, positive attitude, entertaining sense of humor and willingness to help others.
Josh leaves behind to cherish his memory, his wife, Joni; daughter, Fiona; mother, Maripat (Reid) Bliss-Ribbon; sister, Jennifer Bliss; nephews, Jaiden and Malakei; grandmother, Donna Bliss; uncle, Dann Bliss; cousin, Madeline Bliss; aunt, Kathy (Herb) Stoltenberg; cousins, Paul, Andy and Tim; uncle, Mike (Emily) Bliss; cousins, Jeff and Cindy; along with numerous friends and co-workers, and his beloved dog, Troubles.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Patrick Bliss; and uncle, Al Bliss.
A Memorial Service will be held at Coulee Region Cremation Group – The Gathering Place, 133 Mason Street, Onalaska, WI 54650 on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. with a Visitation prior from 11:00 a.m. until time of service.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Our Lady of the Assumption Church, 2222 Shopiere Road, Beloit, WI 53511 on Saturday, June 27, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Josh was a great friend. Humble and trustworthy, thoughtful and caring. Heaven has gained a true angel. Our sympathies to Joni and Fiona.
Josh was a wonderful person. I’m so sorry to the family.
Rest easy Josh.
A kind and gentle soul. I enjoyed working with you. RIP Josh
I am so sorry for your loss of Josh. I had the privilege of being his teacher in high school teaching him basic cooking skills. He was a kind student and will be missed dearly by his family and friends. You have my sympathy and prayers during these sorrowful days.
It is hard to put into words the loss of someone I’ve known for so long. I had the privilege of knowing him since about second grade, and over the years he became much more than a friend—he was part of countless memories and milestones. Josh and I were even voted “Most Likely to Be Abducted by Aliens” in 8th grade, a memory that still makes me smile. He was also a groomsman in my wedding, a reflection of just how much his friendship meant to me and my family.
Like so many lifelong friends, we didn’t stay in touch as often over the last several years as we each built our own lives and raised our families. But the passage of time and distance never changed the importance of the friendship we shared or the memories we made together.
His strength, kindness, and humor left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him. While cancer may have taken him from us far too soon, it can never take away the memories, laughter, and friendship he gave throughout his life.
My heart goes out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.