Joseph “Joe” Gervais, age 83, passed away on September 22, 2025, in Tucson, Arizona, where he was receiving care through the VA. Born in Minnesota, Joe lived a life defined by service, skill, humor, and genuine kindness.
Joe spent many cherished years in Montana’s Bitterroot Valley, where he was widely known and deeply respected as a corrective horseshoer. He shod hundreds of horses and famously knew many of them by name. His pleasant personality, easy smile, and great sense of humor made him a favorite among horse owners and friends alike.
At just 17 years old, Joe joined the United States Navy, serving as a machinist aboard destroyers and nuclear submarines. He dedicated 27 years to naval service before retiring for health reasons. His career also included reserve recruiting assignments in Missoula, Montana; Boise, Idaho; and Oklahoma at Tinker Air Force Base. Joe was proud of his Navy service and the lifelong friendships it brought him.
Joe and his beloved wife, Kay, shared a passion for travel, exploring the Southwest and Mexico together. Later in life, they took up cowboy mounted shooting, a sport they loved, with Joe serving as range master—another role that reflected his leadership, fairness, and love of community.
In 2025, Joe and Kay moved to Tucson, Arizona, settling near the Catalina Mountains, where Joe remained under VA care until his passing.
Joe will be missed forever by his Minnesota family, friends, and all who knew him. He is survived by his wife, Kay Gervais, who says she has lost her best friend; his daughter, Holly Gervais; his brother, Lonny Gervais; his sister, Kathy Smalley; along with his many horseshoeing clients, Navy friends, and VA caregivers—each of whom came to love Joe for his warm smile, pleasant personality, and fun-loving nature.
Joe Gervais leaves behind a legacy of service, laughter, and friendship that will not be forgotten.
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