Memorial Tree for Joe
Our family would like to plant 1 or 2 trees in memory of Joe, the most fun and sweet person we all knew. When Joe was young, he would play with all of his neighborhood friends on the boulevard in front of our home, and in the winter, snow forts were the main attraction on the boulevard.
After the Derecho of 2020, over 70% of the tree canopy in Cedar Rapids was destroyed. To honor Joe, we would like to plant some trees on the boulevard to help beautify the neighborhood, like Joe beautified our lives. All funds raised will go toward the purchase of city-permitted trees for installation.
UPDATE: THANK YOU SO MUCH to all of those who have donated to plant trees in Joe's honor! We have surpassed our goal but we plan to continue to plant trees up and down the boulevard.
OBITUARY: Joseph Drahos, 33, died suddenly on August 22nd as a result from a long struggle with epilepsy. Born and raised in Cedar Rapids, Joe went on to receive a degree in Petroleum Engineering from Missouri S&T, while playing the sport he loved, football. Entering his Senior year, Joe was named Division II First Team All-American as a placekicker. To date, he still holds many school records.
In addition to his love for football, Joe had a passion for playing the piano for his family and in his free time, his favorite being classical.
Joe’s love for his family and friends was unconditional; for him, family was the foundation of who he was. His devotion to relationships resonated with everyone, both young and old. Despite the many difficult challenges thrown his way, he always maintained a positive attitude and remained hopeful in his dream of owning his own home and starting a family.
Joe’s giving nature continues even after his passing. He was proud of his early-on commitment in being an organ donor and his contributions will benefit the lives of many people.
Joe was deeply loved by his family and friends. His laughter and sense of fun was infectious and his resilience in courage was unwavering. Forever would not have been enough time with Joe, but we are nonetheless grateful for the time we were given.
Joe is preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents and his younger sister, Elizabeth. He is survived by his parents, Pat & Sub; his siblings, Susie (Peter), Ken, Karen, Jeni, Ann, and Becky; nine nieces and nephews and his wife Taylor.
A visitation gathering for family and friends will be held Thursday, August 26th from 4-7 at Cedar Memorial. A private, graveside service will be held for immediate family only.
