Joseph Wayne Thran

Joseph W. Thran, age 59 of Portage, died peacefully at his home under hospice care on February 1, 2021. He was born May 29, 1961, in Grand Rapids, the son of Daniel and Sally (Austin) Thran. Joe grew up in Portage and was a 1979 graduate of Portage Northern High School. Following high school he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He was stationed in San Diego and served on the U.S.S. Dixon. After his discharge, Joe returned to Portage and worked at Orkin Pest Control. It was during his time there that he met Kathleen "Kit" Warner. Joe met his soulmate in 1983 when he met Kit. They were married August 3, 1985. They were a perfect match and enjoyed nothing more than being together. Their family was complete with their two daughters. His family was his main priority. Joe was very creative and was electronically gifted. He worked for Kalamazoo Amusement and later retired from A.M.I. Entertainment, where he was a technician on the games. He had a knack for working with his hands, whether building things, fixing items, cross stitching and using his creativity with his musical inclination. Always an adventurous person, Joe loved the outdoors, and enjoyed animals including his own beloved pets. Joe's family includes his wife Kathleen "Kit" Thran; his children: Veronica (Anthony) Woods and Jessica (Chris) Ailstock; his grandchildren: Hailey, Hunter, A.J., and Annabelle; his brother Mike (Carol) Thran, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Doug Thran and his sister Becky Thran. A memorial service will be held in the spring to honor Joe. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be directed to the Wounded Warriors or the Kalamazoo Animal Rescue. Please visit Joe's webpage to sign his online guest book or to leave a condolence. www.langelands.com.