It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joseph Stephen Westgerdes, who left this world far too soon on June 1, 2025. Born on May 22, 2024, in Columbus, OH, Joseph was a spirited fighter from the very beginning, facing the challenges of spina bifida with an unmatched bravery that inspired all who knew him. Defying expectations, he made it past his first birthday and filled the hearts of his family and caregivers with joy during his brief time with us.

Despite the struggles he faced, Joseph was a happy, ornery little boy who loved to smile and stick out his tongue, bringing light to the lives of everyone around him. Spending most of his life in the hospital, he became well-known as the "Tablet Killer," delighting staff and family alike as he drained the batteries of countless electronic devices. If anyone needed cheering up, they knew just where to find it-visiting Joseph was always a boost to the spirit. His family is fortunate to have shared precious moments with Joseph at home for a week before he fell ill, and those memories will forever live on in their hearts.

Joseph is survived by his loving parents, Nick and Jeannie (Ball) Westgerdes; his brothers: Tyler and Christopher; his sisters; Peyton, Harmany, Sophia, and Michele; and his beloved grandparents: John Ball and Gene and Jane Westgerdes. He is also remembered fondly by his aunts and uncles, Kim (Jessie Jutte) Westgerdes, Jenny (Ryan) Logan, Judy (Travis Dunlap) Ball, John (Stacie) Ball, and Jacob (Emily) Ball, as well as numerous cousins.

Joseph was preceded in death by his grandmother, Jodie Ball; aunt, Jessica Ball; and cousin, David Ball.

Family and friends are invited to come together to celebrate Joseph's life.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 AM, Saturday, June 7th, 2025 at New Horizons Community Church, 833 S. Main St, Rockford, Ohio. Joseph will be laid to rest at a committal service in Riverside Cemetery immediately following the funeral.

Visitation will be held at Ketcham-Ripley Funeral Home, 111 W. First Street, Rockford, OH from 3 to 8 PM on Friday, June 6, 2025. A second visitation will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at New Horizons Community Church at 9:00 AM, leading to the funeral service at 10:00 AM.

For those who prefer, memorial contributions in Joseph's name may be made to the Spina Bifida Association, www. https://www.spinabifidaassociation.org.

To share in Joseph's online memorial, please visit www.ketchamripley.com. Arrangements entrusted to Ketcham-Ripley Funeral Home, Rockford, OH.