From the Sioux Chief Family

Joseph P. Ismert, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, inventor, entrepreneur, and man of faith, was holy and hard working. He passed away peacefully on September 2, 2026, next to his bride and with his family nearby.

Joe built Sioux Chief Manufacturing and a family of other companies from the ground up, with his devoted brother Mike and later his family, establishing a legacy of innovation, hard work, and entrepreneurship that will continue through the generations. An inventor at heart, Joe held numerous patents throughout his career and took great pride in finding practical solutions to difficult problems. And throughout his life, he was a mentor to many. His passion for innovation and contractor-focused solutions remains the foundation of Sioux Chief’s mission.

Joe was a man of strong faith, who served in action more than words and generously supported numerous causes throughout his life. His faith shaped the way he approached his family, his business, and his responsibility to others.

His accomplishments, however, were never what defined him most. Joe’s greatest pride was his family. Joe leaves behind a legacy far greater than the companies he built or the inventions he created — a wife and a family shaped by his faith, work ethic, generosity, humor, and love. His greatest creation was the family he and Debbie built together.

Joe will be deeply missed, remembered, and forever present in the lives of the many people he loved.