Joseph J. Mackesy

Joseph J. Mackesy, born June 9, 1943, in Milwaukee, Wis., passed away on Aug. 12, 2026, at South Lake Hospital in Clermont, Fla.

Joe was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. While in Wisconsin he was a community leader. He was very active in the Catholic church in Belgium, Wis. Joe was also a very active member of the Fredonia Lions Club, in which he served as a foundation director. Joe was instrumental in helping form the BOLD (Blind Outdoor Leisure Development) program.

Joe was in the title insurance industry for 57 years. He owned and operated a very successful title insurance company in Port Washington, Wis. He was an active member of both the Wisconsin Land Title Association and the American Land Title Association.

Retirement began in 2005 with Joe continuing work in the title insurance industry after moving to Florida.

Joe’s love of people made him a perfect Disney World cast member. He also worked in the World of Disney Store and loved walking through the store chatting with people, talking to the small children and telling jokes and stories. He received the Employee oOf the Quarter award several times because of his outgoing personality and ability to engage with the guests with joy and humor.

Joe is survived by his wife Shirley; son Paul and his wife Linda of Wisconsin; daughter MaryJo and husband Larry of Michigan; son Mark and wife Stephanie of New Hampshire; son Kevin, deceased, and son Christopher and wife Alyson of Illinois; stepdaughter Lynn and husband Jim of Wisconsin; and stepdaughter Susan of Arizona. Joe had many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Joe is remembered for his jokes and humor and his ability to converse with anyone. He really enjoyed his community of friends.