Joseph Edward Grella

Joseph Edward Grella, 65, passed away on Sunday, May 17, 2026, in Shawnee, Okla. Born on July 28, 1960, in Cheyenne, Wyo., to Edward and Jayme (Pickrel) Grella, Joe lived life on his own terms: fast, loud, and full of adventure.

Joe was happiest with the wind at his back on his Harley, tinkering under a car’s hood, spending hours playing solitaire or doing word finds. He had a passion for speed and a knack for fixing things. Those who knew him will remember his rebellious spirit and his love of “raising hell” and having fun.

In recent years, Joe discovered a new passion for woodworking and cabinetry. He took great pride in the home and lake property he shared with his longtime partner, Renee, pouring countless hours of hard work and sweat equity into making it a place filled with memories for family and friends alike.

He leaves behind his mother, Jayme Grella of Beatrice; his sisters, Teresa of Fairbury, Pam (Jerry) of Filley, and Debra (Devin) of Blue Springs; his partner of nearly 26 years, Renee Bykerk and their two fur daughters, Sophia and Chi.

He is also survived by his daughters, Casey (Andrew) of Fredericksburg, Va., and Samantha of Lincoln; his stepchildren, Jason (Brandy) of Shawnee, Okla., Jessica (Corey) of Montrose, Colo., Chris (Sarah) of Tecumseh, Okla., and Matt (Jade) of Prague, Okla.; along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will miss him dearly.

Joe was preceded in death by his grandparents; his father, Edward Martz Grella; his son, Joseph Emmanuel Grella; and his in-laws.

Joe will be remembered for his stubborn spirit, his quick wit, his hardworking nature, and the way he lived life fully and freely. Though he is gone, the memories he created and the love he gave will remain forever in the hearts of his family and friends.

Per Joe’s wishes, there will be no funeral or formal services. Instead, family and friends gathered for a casual Celebration of Life at the lake property he loved so much on Saturday, May 23, 2026. A second Celebration of Life will also be held in Beatrice at a later date, where Joe will get to take his last ride and his ashes will be placed with his son, Joey.