Joseph Gramelspacher

Joseph Virgil “Joe” Gramelspacher, age 70, died in his home on Wednesday, June 22, 2022, with family at his side. Joe had been diagnosed with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) in May 2021 and showed incredible grace and courage as the disease progressed. His humor, curiosity, concern about those around him, and love for his family were present until his death. Joe and his family want to express our gratitude to the amazing “J Team” of Vanderbilt Home Care Services and to his Alive Hospice team for allowing him to remain at home during his last months.

Joe was born in Jasper, Indiana on February 9, 1952, the fourth of seven children, to John W. and Ruby Fern (Huls) Gramelspacher. He graduated from Indiana State University. Joe met his wife, Audrey Cheniae, in Nashville, Tennessee and they married on September 22, 1984. He retired in August 2021 from Vanderbilt University Medical Center, where he worked in Information Technology. Joe loved music, reading, travel, working in his yard, walking in the Indiana woods, and learning about his heritage, among many other interests.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law, Steve Jerrell. Joe is survived by Audrey, their son Max (wife, Kathryn Holt) of Portland, OR, their daughter Maria of Louisville, KY, and siblings Maribeth (Randy) Seger, Indianapolis, IN, George Gramelspacher, Jasper, IN, Kathryn “Kaye” Jerrell, Jasper, IN, Anne (Daniel) Hasenour, Huntingburg, IN, Philip Gramelspacher (Annie), Jasper, IN and Gretchen (Steve) Sell, Auburn, CA. He also leaves behind numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

The family will have private services. Memorial contributions in Joe’s honor may be made to Team Gleason Foundation - 2021 Lakeshore Dr., Suite 120, New Orleans, LA 70122, Alive Hospice - 1718 Patterson St., Nashville, TN 37203, Nashville Jazz Workshop - 1012 Buchanan St., Nashville, TN 37208, or The ALS Association Tennessee Chapter - P.O. Box 40244 - Nashville, TN 37204-0244.