Joseph Edward Diedrich

Joseph Edward Diedrich, 63, of Knoxville, Tennessee arrived in the arms of his Savior, Jesus Christ, on April 21, 2025 after bravely fighting a rare and aggressive cancer.

Born on September 3, 1961 in Alpena, Michigan, Joe grew up in a very large and loving family, his being active in sports throughout his youth and graduated from Alpena High School. He later served honorably in the United States Air Force from 1981 -1985 and was stationed at Elmendorf Air Force Base in Anchorage, Alaska, reaching the rank of Senior Airman.

After completing a degree in Concrete Technology, Joe dedicated many years to broadening his knowledge and experience in the cement industry. After 28 years as Technical Services Manager for Cemex, Joe’s ultimate career happiness pinnacled when coming onboard with Federal White Cement in May 2018, where he served as Manager of Technical Services and was liaison between Sales and Production – covering US and Canada.

Joe was rejuvenated in nature and enjoyed mountain biking, shooting his guns, hunting, fishing, and his lifelong passion was especially lumberjacking. He also gained great happiness in passing along his love for wood cutting - teaching his grandsons to split, stack, and deliver firewood. His utmost joy was being together with family and having children and grandchildren gathered around bonfires. He was talented in woodworking, creating, and building which he also taught his grandchildren. Grandpa always had an apparent glow of delight when spending time with his grandchildren.

Joe exuded warmth and was known for his friendly down-to-earth demeanor which was often accompanied by his witty grin. He had a unique blend of strength, quiet confidence, and wasn’t afraid to speak his mind. His faith was evident among family, as well as for all those he encountered throughout his life and his cancer journey. He leaves a legacy for teaching, perseverance, and strong work ethic for generations to follow him. The only thing he has never known how to do is quit, and his journey here on earth is a direct reflection of that.

He leaves behind a loving family that includes his wife of 43 years, Barbara; his children, Timothy Diedrich, Thomas Diedrich (Jessica), Sarah Stewart (Nathan), and Lisa Greeley (Gavin); his grandchildren, Luke, Abby, Malachi, Isaac, Nora Jane, Tyler, Daniel, Ben, Sam, Finn, and Annie; his siblings, Michael Diedrich (Kathy), Rosanne Keller (Marc), Donna Kershner (Ron), Linda Kreis (Michael), Mary Ferguson (Craig), John Diedrich (Gail), Kenneth Diedrich (Debbie), Christine Hoffman (Eugene), and Janet Edick (Joe); as well as many nieces and nephews.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Bernard W. Diedrich and Lois J. Diedrich; siblings Charles, Thomas, Ann, and Paul; grandson Silas.

As we rejoice in Joe’s heavenly homecoming, we celebrate his life well-lived and his impact on all those who knew him. Joe’s story is one of courage, faithfulness, resilience, and triumph.

We know God has resounded, “Welcome Home, Good and Faithful Servant.” He will be fondly remembered and sorely missed by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of crossing paths with him.

Visitation will take place Tuesday on April 29, 2025 at Mynatt Funeral Home Powell Chapel from 5:00-7:00 p.m. with a funeral service to follow at 7:00 p.m.

The service will be live streamed at youtube.com/@mynattfuneralhomepowellchapel.

Private Burial Service will be at a later date.

Mynatt Funeral Home Powell Chapel is honored to be serving the family of Joseph Edward Diedrich.

Mynatt Funeral Home Powell Chapel * 2000 Powell Drive * Powell, TN 37849 * (865) 362-5382 * www.mynattfh.com