Joseph Bickens (81) passed away on Sunday, July 25, 2021 at Sheridan Manorin Sheridan, WY comforted by loved ones near and far. He was born November 13, 1939 to his parents Cornelius and Gertrude (Gelato)Bickens in Jersey City, New Jersey.

Joe lived an adventurous life full of love, travel, and enjoyment. As a proud patriot, Joe took every opportunity to see the major sites of America including The Statue of Liberty, The Grand Canyon, and Mount Rushmore. He never missed an opportunity to learn about the history of his country. Ever the storyteller, Joe would often amuse his beloved siblings, nieces, and nephews with tales from his childhood or special riddles that would stump his family for days. He was quick with a joke and a smile for everyone who knew him. He was truly a man of many talents, and his paintings, puzzles, and crafts decorate the homes of his loved ones. Uncle Joey was always sharing a tune. He loved music, old radio shows, westerns, seeing movies, taking in ball games (pro and family) and many TV shows. You knewn ever to call and interrupt Survivors night. Most family time activities included games of trivia, Uno, or the beloved Initials. He was also quite the movie director, capturing special family moments by making home movies to be cherished by his relatives forever.

Joe started his work life as a young teen delivering milk bottles in the early mornings before school. Throughout the years, he dabbled in pet care, flooring, factory work, and ended his career days as a kitchen manager of a nursing home in New Jersey. Upon retirement, Joe moved to Wyoming where he immersed himself into the Sheridan community by attending all local events and learning much of the local history while enjoying the remaining years of his life. Even though he loved life in the west, Joe also made it a priority to visit his family back east as often as possible. Family always mattered most to Uncle Joey.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents Cornelius and Gertrude Bickens, his brothers George and Robert Bickens, and his sisters Margaret Stubaus and Mildred Ryan. He is survived by his brother Arthur Bickens of Sheridan, his sisters Ann Greeley of Sheridan and Rose(John) Hanley of Nescopeck, PA as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews ,great-great-nieces, and great-great nephews who all share special memories of their charismatic, fun-loving Uncle Joey.

A family graveside service and celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with local arrangements.

‍