Joe Scott Colburn

On November 25, 2019, Joe Scott Colburn, 41, entered Heaven the way he lived his life; with courage, dignity and speed. Less than two years after he was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, he took his last breath in the place he visited too often the past few months, Gundersen Health System, with the love of his life and wife, Arisa by his side. He faced every obstacle from cancer head on, and he always remained positive while battling what he knew from the very start was incurable. While he never gave up fighting, his battle was a difficult one and he fought until his very last breath.

Joe was born on February 17, 1978, to Dianne (Holberg) and Royal Colburn, in La Crosse, WI. From that day forward, he brought nothing but smiles and laughter into his family’s and friend’s lives and anyone that had the honor of meeting and/or knowing him. Joe spent his years growing up on French Island where he loved to have his freedom whether on the road or on the river. He attended Summit Elementary, Logan Middle and Logan High schools. He then went on to work doing what he thoroughly enjoyed, working and maintaining vehicles.

All people die, but not all people live. Joe - he lived! He packed so much life into his short 41 years with us. Anyone could always count on Joe to lend a helping hand or to come up with some shenanigans. He loved to smile, laugh, be goofy and just have fun. He was usually a part of anything that was fast and loud. From his big trucks and fast Harleys, to his four-wheeler and boat, Joe would be the one giving crazy wild rides, always with lots of laughter. The river, the mud and his garage were some of his favorite places.

Joe is survived by his wife Arisa (Salvino) Colburn; parents Dianne and Royal Colburn; brothers Chris (Laurie) Colburn, Paul (Amy) Colburn, Mark (Dianah) Colburn, Gary Gilbeck, Drew Salvino; nieces and nephews, many cousins, and a whole lot of friends; all who meant so much to him.

Although we may no longer physically see Joe, he has left an undeniable mark on all of us that were lucky enough to have known him. He would want all of us to remember him with a smile rather than with tears. He would want us to find comfort in knowing that he is free of pain and home with his family and friends who went before him. We will forever miss his contagious smile, unforgettable laugh and genuine heart. He remains deeply loved and will never be forgotten. Joe was that "one in a million" special kind of person, and one of the best men, husbands, sons, brothers, uncles, cousins, and friends anyone could ask for.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate the life of Joe on Saturday, December 14 ^th from 2-6 pm, at the Days Inn Hotel and Conference Center, 101 Sky Harbour Drive, La Crosse, WI 54603.