Joseph Vano, aged 82 of Rapid City, SD passed away on April 22, 2025 in Custer, SD.

Joe Vano was born on January 20th, 1943 to Mary and John Vano in Chicago, IL. Soon after they moved to West Saint Paul, MN where he grew up and attended Sibley High School, graduating in 1961. Joe also met his future wife, Shirley Louise Kraetzner at Sibley High and they were married June 4th, 1966. His love of art and logic took him to pursuing and achieving a Bachelors in Architecture at the University of Minnesota. Working as a registered architect for about 50 years Joseph was hired by major firms such as Rapson and Hammel Green as well as being self-employed, earning several awards during his career. Joe was well known for the passion he put into his hobbies including hang gliding, oil painting, drawing, photography, birding, riding motorcycles, digiscoping, and antique cars.

Joe is survived by his wife, Shirley L. Vano; daughters, Alicia Rogers Vano and Ariell Hattie Vano; grandchildren, Tiffany (& TJ) Thompson, Chelsea Truttmann, Tristan (& Mengdie) Truttmann; Colin Truttmann, and Teagan Truttmann; great-granddaughters, Harper and Stella Thompson; brother, Andrew (& Sally) Vano, sister-in-law Gloria Vano.

Joseph was preceded in death by his parents, John and Mary Vano as well as his brother Milan Vano

Joseph was cremated as he desired, no plans for burial.

His memorial will be held on 2pm (MT) May 31st, 2025 at Behrens Wilson Funeral Home (632 St Francis St, Rapid City, SD 57701). Cards, etc can be sent to the funeral home or 2013 2nd Ave, Rapid City, SD 57792.

Joe’s family extends sincere thanks to our family and friends for their love and support as well as Custer Care and Rehab and Behrens Wilson Funeral Home.