Joseph M. Twa

Joseph M. Twa, age 73, of Rapid River, passed away Saturday morning, August 27, 2022 at his home. He was born on January 2, 1949 in Stambaugh, MI, the son of John and Mae (Reiman) Twa. Joe grew up at Fortune Lake in Crystal Falls, MI and was a 1967 graduate of Crystal Falls High School. He went on to attend Kendall College of Art and Design in Grand Rapids, MI where he earned and obtained his Associates Degree in Art in 1970. He married the former Mary Ann Ludden in 1972 and she preceded him in death in 1994. Together, the couple shared 22 years of marriage and raised one son, John. Joe worked for 5 years at a sign company in Grand Rapids, MI before relocating to Rapid River in 1975. At this time, he took a position with Bill Meiers at Meiers Signs in Escanaba. In 1980, Joe had the opportunity to purchase the business which he owned and operated Meiers Signs for 30 years until his retirement. Joe married the former Karen Johnson on September 23, 1995 at Laughing Whitefish Falls and together shared nearly 27 years of marriage. He was an accomplished artist and photographer and also taught stained glass classes at Bay College. He was also former President of the Delta County Cart Club.

Joe is survived by his wife, Karen Twa of Rapid River; son, John (Jill) Twa of Boise, ID; brother, Bill (Susan) Twa of Gwinn, MI; sister, Molly Reffuchini of Vero Beach, FL; and several nieces and nephews.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, John and Mae Twa; and his first wife, Mary Ann Twa.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., Saturday, September 3, 2022 at the Anderson Funeral Home in Gladstone. Funeral services celebrating the life of Joseph will follow at 12:00 p.m., Saturday in the Anderson Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Paul Kelto officiating. Burial will take place in the Rapid River Cemetery. 

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