Joseph A. Kort

Joseph A. Kort of Saukville passed away on Monday, Aug. 26, 2024. He was 76 years old.

Joseph was born on Feb. 2,1948, to Peter and Helen (Netik) Kort in Milwaukee, Wis.

He was enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1968 and served until 1972 as a weapons specialist. He served in Thailand during the Vietnam War.

On Nov. 15, 1969, he was united in marriage to Karen Kurek in Milwaukee, Wis. They spent more than 50 years together.

In January 1978, Joe was hired as a radio operator-jailor for the Ozaukee County Sheriff’s Office. In October 1978, he successfully graduated from the Law Enforcement Recruit Academy, and in April 1980, he was promoted to the traffic division. Joe completed Basic SWAT training in January 1982. In January 1993, he was promoted to jail sergeant, then to SRT Team commander.  Joe retired on June 30, 2004, after more than 25 years of service.

He was a founding member of the Ozaukee County Special Response Team from 1982 to 2004, the team commander from 1997 to 2004, a charter member of the Wisconsin Association of Swat Personnel and a firearms instructor.

Since retirement, Joe’s favorite pastime has been watching Fox News.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife Karen and his daughters Joely (Randy) Buss and Ronda (Joe) Kane. He was the proud grandpa of Connor Buss, Morgan Buss and Ethan Kane.

He is further survived by his sister Joyce Kort, his sister- in-law Joyce (Steve) Peterson and brother-in-law Jeff (the late Cindy) Kurek, along with nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his siblings Carol, Arlene, Dick, Judy and his twin brother Jim.

A private service in Joe’s honor was held. A celebration of life will take place on Saturday, Sept. 21, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Engine Room 102 in Port Washington.

The family would like to thank Waubeka Fire Department and Rescue for their service and kindness.

Eernisse Funeral Home, Port Washington, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Online condolences may be left at www.eernissefuneralhome.com.