Joseph Grabow Jr.

Joseph (Joe) Stanley Grabow Jr., 71, passed away peacefully on March 23, 2026, surrounded by his loving family and in the presence of his Savior. He was born in Omaha, Nebraska, to Joseph Grabow Sr. and Geraldine Ann Grabow (Cogan), the first of four boys! He grew up to be intelligent, pioneering, curious and patriotic. He will be loved and missed by his family, friends and community.

Joe was a proud American who served his country with honor in the United States Navy for six years. As an Electronic Equipment Repairman aboard the USS Mars, he traveled internationally and the world broadened his horizons, but the language that truly captured his heart wasn’t spoken in any country — it was C++! Following his honorable discharge from the Navy, Joe dedicated his professional life to computer programming and software engineering, a field he loved deeply. Well into his retirement, he was still programming but with his favorite co-worker, his grandson, teaching some basics using small single board computer systems.

Joe lived an active life. As a young man, he was a dedicated swimmer, and throughout his life he maintained a strong commitment to physical fitness. In midlife, he embraced long-distance cycling and completed the Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa (RAGBRAI) an incredible thirteen times—each ride averaging nearly 468 miles in a single week! Over the years, those miles added up to the equivalent of biking across the United States - TWICE! Joe also enjoyed weightlifting and running, always valuing discipline, endurance, and personal challenge. And when it was time to slow down, his fingers still stayed busy bringing music to life as he played his guitar.

Beyond his accomplishments, Joe will be remembered for his character. He was a devoted member of Christ Point Baptist Church in Shenandoah, Iowa, under the leadership of Pastor Noel Gandy. He was a kind and reliable neighbor, known for helping care for elderly neighbors and lending a hand after storms. Joe was also an active member of the Patriot Guard, riding his Harley-Davidson to stand in respectful support of fellow veterans - something that brought him great pride and purpose.

Above all, Joe was a deeply loved brother, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his four children, Michael Grabow, Melissa Kee, Corinn Grabow, and Collin Grabow; and by his grandchildren, Lyssa Halterman, Sabin Kee, Samson Holst, Felix Holst, and Linus Holst. He is also survived by his brothers, Jim Grabow, John Grabow, and Jay Grabow.

In honor of Joe’s life and legacy, the family welcomes memorial contributions: CLICK HERE to donate to “Hearts of Hope Baby Shower” by the Open Door Mission (Hearts of Hope Baby Shower - Open Door Mission) and CLICK HERE to donate to the Disabled American Veterans (Support DAV Today! - Donate Today - Disabled American Veterans (DAV)).

On Saturday, May 30, 2026 the family of Joseph Grabow will be gathering at Braman Mortuary (Millard Chapel) at 10:30 AM, then leaving in procession at 10:45 AM for a 11:00 AM GRAVESIDE SERVICE at Grabow Cemetery with Military Honors. (18608 Cornhusker Road, Gretna, NE)

Braman Mortuary and Cremation Services (6505 S. 144 St. Omaha, NE 68114 / 402-895-3400)