Joe May

Joseph Michael “Joe” May was born on March 14, 1954, in Lincoln, Nebraska to Iven and Anne (Sullivan) May and passed away on July 15, 2026, in Lincoln, Nebraska at the age of 72 years, 4 months and 1 day.

Joe grew up in Hickman, NE and attended school at Norris High School graduating with the class of 1972. He enjoyed playing football and wrestling during high school. After his graduation Joe entered the United States Air Force where he served from 1972 until his honorable discharge in 1976. Joe then attended the University of Nebraska receiving a Bachelor’s Degree. Later he attended Northern Colorado where he received his Master of Science degree in Kinesiology.

Joe met Rhonda Ficke in the late 1990’s at a multiple sclerosis event and their lives together became a beautiful bond. They built a wonderful home in Pleasant Dale, NE where he lived until moving to Madonna in 2011. Rhonda continued to be his angel caregiver along with the wonderful Madonna family until her passing in November of 2023. Joe’s four remaining brothers jointly tried to provide the amazing care that she had given him. Joe battled multiple sclerosis for 30 years.

Joe is preceded in death by his parents; beloved partner, Rhonda Ficke; siblings, Larry May, Yvette Smolik; brothers-in-law, Bob Smolik, Lambert Danczak.

Survivors cherishing his memory include his siblings and spouses, Loretta Danczak, Pat (Jack) Scott, Annette (Bob) Miller, Bob (Donna) May, Keith (Pat) May, Ed (Mary) May, Ken (Irene) May; mother-in-law, Beverly Ficke; sisters-in-law, Sandy May, Janet (Ernie) Krenk, Jolene (Joe Zochol); brother-in-law, Del (Brenda) Ficke; numerous nieces, nephews and beloved Madonna family.