Joe Thomas DeWeese

Joe Thomas DeWeese, 86, of Bend, Oregon, passed away peacefully on January 10, 2025. Born on August 21, 1938, in Denton, Texas, Joe's adventurous spirit took him from the heart of Texas to the rugged landscapes of Colorado, Wyoming, Nevada, and California. After years of exploring the American West, he settled in Bend, Oregon, where he spent his final years surrounded by the natural beauty he loved.

A skilled and dedicated heavy equipment mechanic, Joe worked at large gold, silver, and coal mines throughout the West. His career also held brief entrepreneurial ventures, including selling road bikes, van ladder equipment and URAL sidecar motorcycles.

Joe had a lifelong passion for vintage automobiles, especially Alfa Romeos, as well as old BMW motorcycles and WWII aircraft. He also enjoyed riding and racing road bicycles. Later in life, his interests expanded to include a deep love for dogs and a keen passion for ketogenic and carnivore diets, which he often spoke about with enthusiasm.

Joe was preceded in death by his second wife, Cynthia DeWeese; his parents, Joe and Judy DeWeese; and his daughter, Teresa Tipper and son-in-law Bruce Tipper. He is survived by his daughter Vicki Baiamonte and son-in-law Larry; his daughter Michele Crim and son-in-law Glenn; his son, Matthew DeWeese and daughter-in-law Michelle; grandchildren Chris Simmons and his wife Megan, Tyler Berlin, and Vanessa Tipper; great grandson Colt Simmons and great granddaughter Sawyer Simmons; his brother, Jack DeWeese; his sister, Judy Warner and her husband Tom; his first wife, Betty Hester; and his "daughter of the heart," Lori Robles.

In accordance with Joe’s wishes, no formal services will be held. His ashes will be scattered at his beloved spots in Oregon, Colorado, and Texas, where he felt most at peace.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to local dog rescue organizations in Joe's memory.

May those who knew Joe find comfort in the memories of his adventurous spirit, his boundless passions, and his love for life.

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