Joseph Oliver Baillargeon

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of an amazing family man and friend Joe Baillargeon, who unexpectedly passed away on January 25, 2025, at the age of 74 while cheering on his grandkids at the Pinewood Derby. Born on February 23, 1950, in Somerset, WI. Joe, a devoted son, brother, husband, Dad (Papa Joe), Grandpa/Bapa and friend, was a true "social butterfly" whose positive attitude and energy was contagious to everyone around him. Known for his humor, kindness, generosity, and positive energy, he was always surrounded by loved ones. He valued faith, family, friends, and work, and was an avid Packers fan. Joe was a proud Army veteran (who served during the Vietnam era in Korea), who cherished connections with fellow veterans and loved meeting new people. Joe and Sheryl were married in 1976, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter and adventure. They were married for 48 years and lived in White Bear Lake for the past 43 years, along with visiting their "happy place" at the cabin in Zimmerman, MN. Joe & Sheryl raised their three kids and enjoyed spending time with their seven grandkids any chance they got. They made priceless memories together, including road trips, camping (especially the "Circle of Wisdom" at Greenwood), sporting events, game nights, cabin time, annual Grandparents therapy weekend at Perch Lake, and so much more! He worked at 3M for over 30 years and later explored various other jobs, always for the social aspect and food. Whether cheering on family, playing cards, or attending gatherings, Joe loved spending time with others. Some of his many hobbies included hunting, skiing, "fixing" things, and traveling. Papa Joe had a heart of gold and encouraged us to live life to the fullest, because you never know how much time you have left in this life. His warmth and spirit will be deeply missed, but Papa Joe would want us to love a little deeper, laugh a little louder, and hold the ones you love a little tighter. He is preceded in death by his parents Maurice & Lorraine Baillargeon, his mother-in-law Sylvia Illa, his father-in-law Edward Illa, his sister Maureen Baillargeon, his baby brother Maurice Joseph Baillargeon, his sister-in-laws Peggy Baillargeon and Bernie Baillargeon, his brother-in-laws Dave Griese, Dale Illa and David Hedeen., niece-in-law Jamie Casey (and infant baby), great-nephew Grant Samuel Rohr, and great-niece Hazel Baillargeon. He is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Sheryl, his 3 children Scott (Alicia) Baillargeon, Lisa (Tom) Polinceusz, Dana (Chris) Rucker, and 7 grandchildren Sawyer & Presley Baillargeon, Kasia, Mikey, Luke, & Anya Polinceusz, & Loren Rucker. He will also be missed by his siblings Jerry (Mary Lou) Baillargeon, Judy Griese, Raymond (Terry) Baillargeon, Tony (Judy) Baillargeon, Mary (Ed) Casey, Lee (Debbie) Baillargeon, and Rita (Geof) Strom, along with his in-laws, Gary (Sharon) Illa, Diane Illa and Helen Hedeen. Also survived by many other relatives and friends he loved dearly. The visitation will be held on Friday, February 21, 2025 from 4-7 PM at Washburn-McReavy Shoreview Chapel, 515 Hwy 96 W, Shoreview, MN 55126. Mass will be held on Saturday February 22, 2025 at 11 AM with visitation at 10 AM at St. Mary of the Lake Church 4741 Bald Eagle Ave, White Bear Lake, MN 55110. A luncheon will be held immediately following mass across the road at the St. Mary's Parish Life Center/School 4690 W Bald Eagle Ave, White Bear Lake, MN 55110. If you are unable to make the mass, it will be live streamed through the St. Mary's of the Lake website- click on livestream at the top https://stmarys-wbl.org/. Papa Joe lived his life in color, so please add a pop of color to your outfit to celebrate him. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to a favorite charity of your choice in Joe's name or to St. Mary of the Lake Church. A private burial at Fort Snelling will be held at a later date.

Tributes

Joseph Oliver Baillargeon

February 23, 1950 - January 25, 2025

Tributes

Joseph Oliver Baillargeon

February 23, 1950 - January 25, 2025

We are here for you 24x7

Call us and get help now

(612) 377-2203