Joseph Lavern Ives

Joseph Lavern Ives, 74, of Battle Creek, passed away on Friday, April 21, 2023 at Centrica Care Rose Arbor Hospice Residence in Kalamazoo.

He was born on June 4, 1948 to Elden and Emma (Little) VanDee in Battle Creek.

At the age of 13 while attending Pennfield Schools, he met the love of his life Linda Potter, they married and had many children together, unfortunately their marriage ended in divorce. Joseph worked as a window cleaner for Cereal City Window Cleaners in Battle Creek for many years. Prior to Cereal City he worked in maintenance for the Pennfield School District. When he was able, Joseph loved to travel and go camping. He also enjoyed playing pinochle.

Joseph is survived by his children; Melissa Everett, Aneisa Ives, Ed Standish, Kevin Ives and Donald (Barb) Ives; his 32 grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren; his siblings, Edwin Ives, Michael (Barbara) Stockman, Dorothy Lubking, Brenda VanDee and Sandra VanDee. Joseph is also survived by a special friend, Gail.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sons, Paul Ives and Joseph Ives and his sister, Debbie Manwarren.

A Celebration of Joe’s life will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family.

Arrangements were entrusted to Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services 2838 Capital Ave. SW Battle Creek, Michigan 49015. Please visit https://www.kempffuneralhome.com to view the online obituary, to sign the online guest book or to leave the family condolences.