Joseph "Joe" Albert Michael

Joe, never Joey, was born on August 19, 1952, in Portsmouth, Ohio, to Mose and Betty Michael. He was the fourth boy born in five years and built lifelong bonds with his brothers, Larry (Teresa), Tom (Joan), and Patrick (Jennifer), through years of mischief, adventures, and brotherly antics.

Ready to see the world, Joe left home the day after graduating high school with just fifty dollars in his pocket and a dream of traveling coast to coast across the United States. Along the way, he supported himself through construction and day labor work before eventually arriving in New Orleans, where he fell in love with the city’s culture, food, historic architecture, and most importantly, its people.

Joe briefly returned to Ohio to work in his family’s business, Michael’s Ice Cream, but New Orleans had already become home in his heart. He soon returned and founded Joe Michael General Contractor, dedicating more than forty years to restoring historic homes throughout the Bywater, Uptown, Mid-City, and Old Arabi neighborhoods. The craftsmanship and care he poured into those homes remain lasting pieces of his legacy.

Joe later met his wife, Erin Vincent Michael, and together they shared 33 years of marriage. He was a devoted father to his son, Nicholas Robert Michael (Katherine Nelson), and his daughters, Hannah Elizabeth Michael and Madeline Rose Michael, all of whom he adored deeply.

Joe passed along his sharp sense of humor, his love of late night sweet treats, and his appreciation for beautiful woodworking to his children. He was known for his wit, generosity, craftsmanship, and the unforgettable presence he brought into every room.

All are invited to raise a Budweiser in Joe’s honor and celebrate his life at Bud Rip’s on July 31, 2026, at 5:30 PM.

Joe is returning to his first home at last, and burial will take place on August 8, 2026, in Jackson, Ohio at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Zeus' Rescue, St. Bernard Animal Shelter, Make A Wish Foundation, or St. Jude Children's Hospital.