Joe Glen Griffith was born on January 15th, 1969 in Huron, SD and passed away peacefully at home February 7th, 2026. He was 57 years and 22 days old.

Joe spent his early years in both Huron, SD and Kirbyville, TX as his father was a beekeeper. He graduated from Huron High School and went on to South Dakota State University where in 1993 Joe received his degree in Electrical Engineering. After a short stint as an electrical salesman, he joined IBP in Dakota City, NE. Joe worked for IBP/Tyson Foods as an electrical engineer for the next 32 years. His job had him traveling all around the United States, working at various beef, pork, and chicken plants managing the electrical aspects of projects.

He met his wife, Kirsten, in 1993 while she attended South Dakota State University.  Joe and Kirsten were married in September 2000 in Sioux City, IA.  They lived in Elk Point, SD from 1997-2002 when they moved to their current home in rural Alcester, SD.  Joe and Kirsten have two wonderful sons, Josh and Alex (deceased).

Joe spent most of his time working but also liked tinker with things around the farm.  He was always willing to help when a friend was in need.  He enjoyed hiking on vacations, especially when traveling with family.  Joe was known to be a bit of a jokester, having a dry sense of humor, and one-liners.  If he liked you, he was more than likely to find something to tease you about.  Joe was a hard worker, was very knowledgeable, and earned the respect of his co-workers, plant managers, and contractors.

He was diagnosed with cancer in late August/early September 2025, and after a hard fought battle, Joe passed away at home on February 7, 2026.  However, during this time, Joe and Kirsten were able to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary in Hawaii.

Joe was preceded in death by his son Alex, parents Clareen and Frank Griffith, brother James Griffith, sister Sherry Griffith, and sister Linda Millican.

Joe is survived by his wife Kirsten, son Josh (Arkansas), sister Elva Stenbach (Texas), and brother John Griffith (South Dakota).

Celebration of Life service will be Sunday, February 15, 2026 at 4:00pm at Wass Funeral Home in Alcester, SD; with visitation from 2:00 to 4:00pm.  If you would like to spend more time with Kirsten and Josh, we are having a gathering at the Alcester Clubhouse and Grill from 5:00pm-8:00pm following the service (use the dining hall entrance).  Location:  307 E 6th St., Alcester, SD.

Kirsten and Josh would like to thank Sioux Center Health and Avera Health System for the care they provided Joe over the past 4+ years.