Joseph Eustace Plantamura

Joseph E. Plantamura, 93, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 6, 2026.

Born on June 15, 1932, in Ionia, Michigan, Joe was the son of the late John and Jennie (Mercadante) Plantamura. He graduated from SS. Peter & Paul Academy in Ionia and later attended General Motors Institute in Flint.

Joe served honorably in the United States Army from 1952 to 1954 during the Korean conflict. Following his military service, he dedicated 44 years to the auto dealership industry, retiring in 1996.

Throughout his life, Joe was an active member of his community. He was involved with the Catholic Church, the Lions Club, and the American Legion. In his leisure time, he found great joy in camping, flying, golfing, playing bocce, and cruising vacations. Above all, he cherished the time he spent with his family.

Joe is lovingly remembered by his four daughters: Susan (Dale) Slack of Hoschton, GA; Diane Smith of Longboat Key, FL; Julie (Pat) Greene of Grand Rapids, MI; and Mary Joe Klotz of Byron Center, MI. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Ali Slack, Michael Greene, John Greene, and Austin McCrory, and his great-grandchildren, Lexie and Lucas.

In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by his infant son, Michael; his brothers, Vito and Gus Plantamura; and his sisters, Theresa Spyker and Angie Harwood.

A celebration of Joe’s life will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, June 26, 2026, at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Funeral Home in Grand Rapids, where family and friends will gather to honor his remarkable life. Joe’s family will greet friends beginning at 10:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or a charity of your choice.

Joe leaves behind these words:
 “I will miss you all but thank you for a wonderful life. See you all in our next life.”