

Born in the Bronx, New York, Joe graduated from SUNY Maritime in 1984 with a Bachelor’s degree in Marine Engineering and a Third Assistant Engineer License of Steam and Motor Vessels. He dedicated 41 years of his life to the maritime industry, culminating in his role as Senior Vice President of Operations at Canal Barge Company, where his leadership and commitment to safety left a lasting legacy.
Joe was a dedicated member of several professional organizations throughout his career, including the Seamen’s Church Institute and the River Industry Executive Task Force. He was a proud member of the American Waterways Operators (AWO) RCP Standards Board since 2005 and served as Chairman of Safety Leadership from 2014 to 2020. His work in these roles helped shape industry standards and protect countless lives on the water.
Joe had a deep love for fly fishing, cheering on the Pelicans, and, above all, spending time with his family. He will be remembered for his sense of humor, steady presence, and generous heart.
He is preceded in death by his father, Donald Tyson, and is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Karen LeBouef Tyson; his mother, Julia “Shelia” Tyson; his three daughters: Marguerite “Maggie” Tyson, Sarah Tyson (Mitch Lutz), and Cecilia Tyson; his siblings: Linda Loverro (Angelo), Carol Overbeck (Stephen), Alice Rauschkolb (Jon), Patricia “Patty” Reshore (John), and James “Jim” Tyson (Kate); and many cherished nieces and nephews.
The family wishes to extend special thanks to the entire Canal Barge family for their unwavering support and care.
Services will be held on Friday, August 8 at Lake Lawn Funeral Home. Visitation will begin at 9:30 AM, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 AM. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, August 8 at the Tyson family home, beginning at 5:00 PM. Please contact Maggie Tyson at [email protected] for more details.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joe’s memory to the Seamen’s Church Institute. “Since 1834, The Seamen’s Church Institute (SCI) has provided pastoral care, advocacy, and training to mariners near and far.” https://seamenschurch.org/support-our-mission/make-a-gift-online/
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Seamen’s Church Institute3801 N. Causeway Blvd, Metairie, Louisiana 70002
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