Josephine "Jo" Munkirs

She was born January 25, 1939, in Apollo, Pennsylvania, to Antonio and Concetta Manaia. Josephine grew up in a large, loving family alongside her four sisters and one brother.

From an early age, Josephine was the light of every room. During her school years, she was known for her outgoing personality and love of people, which led to her being crowned her high school's Prom Queen. She loved to dance and did so with joy and enthusiasm, as though no one was watching.

After graduating from high school, Josephine pursued a career in banking before eventually becoming a business owner with her husband Jerry selling banking supplies. She was dedicated to her work and family.

Josephine married Jerry Duane Munkirs on December 15, 1979. Together they moved to Grand Junction later that year to begin building their life.

Josephine was a beautiful example of faith. Her relationship with God was the foundation of her life, and she remained steadfast in her faith through every season, including her illness. Before her health declined, she was an active member of her church, where she found great joy in worship and fellowship. Her faith was reflected in the love and kindness she showed to everyone around her. She was always there for her family and friends, offering a helping hand, a listening ear, and unwavering support whenever she could.

In her free time, Josephine enjoyed sewing, cooking, quilting, entertaining family and friends, and experiencing God's beautiful creation through walks and hikes.

Josephine was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jerry Duane Munkirs; her parents, Antonio and Concetta Manaia; and her stepson, Christopher Munkirs and step grandson Joshua Munkirs.

She is lovingly remembered by her children, Stephanie (Mark) Anderson, Kim (Bill) Hindman, and Kevin (Lori) Kostiuk; her stepchildren, Dana (Laura) Munkirs, Mark Munkirs; her grandchildren, Ryan (Lara) O'Grady, Andrew O'Grady, Scott O'Grady, and Jacob Hindman; her great-granddaughter, Eliana O'Grady; her siblings, Phil, Mary, Ann, Fran, and Carla; and her beloved pet, Kaddee.

Although she will be deeply missed, Josephine's family finds comfort in knowing she is at peace in the presence of her Savior. Her kindness, unwavering faith, generous spirit, and deep love for her family and friends will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.

There will be no formal memorial. Any donations may be made to the Lewy Body Dementia Association in her honor https://lbda.org/donate

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with her loving family at www.howemortuary.com