Joseph ‘Joey’ Michael Bishop
GLADSTONE — Joseph “Joey” Michael Bishop, 63, Gladstone, formerly of Marquette, passed away Saturday, September 9, 2023, one day after his 63rd birthday, at ALS Townhouse, Gladstone, Michigan. He was born September 8, 1960, in Marquette, Michigan, to Michael Joseph Bishop and Magdalyn “Delaine” Frances (Becker) Bishop, the sixth of their seven children.
Joey’s early years were spent primarily in Marquette, Michigan, with a brief time in Ironwood. He spent the last years of his life in Escanaba and Gladstone.
He started attending special education beginning in 1965, and participated in Special Olympics for many years, once being entrusted with carrying the Olympic torch. He was very proud of the jobs he held after completing his schooling, first at the Work Center near Marquette, working with wood, and later doing recycling work with Lakestate Industries.
Joey was baptized and received the sacraments of Holy Eucharist and Confirmation at St. Christopher’s Catholic Church in Marquette.
Joey was a very happy guy who loved to laugh. He had a special sense of humor. He made friends wherever he went. He loved music, especially the music he overheard his brothers and sisters playing, and he loved drumming along. He also liked frisbee, basketball, professional wrestling, bowling, bike riding and bingo. He loved going for rides in the car. There wasn’t a fence in the world that could hold him.
He is survived by his siblings, Kathy (Jim) McCarthy, David Bishop, Mary (Mark) Ruge, Timothy (Julie) Bishop, Robert Bishop, and Susan Bishop along with many beloved nieces, nephews, and other extended family members.
Preceding him in death were his father in 2000, his mother earlier this year, several aunts, uncles, and cousins, and both sets of grandparents.
The family is grateful to Gina Starr and the excellent staff at ALS Townhouse for everything they did for Joey and for us, his family. We know Joey loved you all.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Joseph & St. Patrick parish on Wednesday, September 13, at 2 p.m. with Fr. Robb Jurkovich officiating. A luncheon will follow Mass in the church parish hall. Joey will be laid to rest next to his parents in the St. Ignatius Catholic Cemetery in St. Ignace, MI.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Ray of Sunshine and sent in care of David Bishop, 7281 Lake Bluff 19.4 Rd., Gladstone, MI 49837.
The Allo Coolman Funeral Homes are assisting the Bishop family.
Please visit www.allofh.com to send online condolences to his family.