Joseph Ronald Bird June 7, 1929 – August 4, 2025 Joseph Ronald Bird, age 96, of Iowa City, Iowa, passed away on August 4, 2025. Joe was born on June 7, 1929, in Staunton, Illinois, which he considered home until moving to St. Paul, Minnesota, in 1955. He was preceded in death by his son, John Edward Bird, and his parents, Joseph and Stella (Knaus) Bird. He is survived by his beloved wife of 69 years, Carrie (Calhoun) Bird; three children, Carrie Jeanne (Tom) Carter, Joseph Scott Bird, and Stephen (Nancy) Bird; and three grandchildren, Elisabeth, Katherine, and Joseph. Joe proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War from 1951 to 1954. Following his service, he earned a degree in economics from the University of Wisconsin in 1955. That same year, on November 25, he married the love of his life, Carrie. Joe went on to enjoy a distinguished 36-year career in the investment department at Minnesota Mutual Life Insurance Company. A lifelong athlete and adventurer, Joe was an avid runner who completed his final marathon—the Marine Corps Marathon—at age 70. He also loved bicycling around the country with Carrie and spending time with his family. Joe was a devoted husband, a wise and caring mentor to his children, and a proud grandfather whose greatest joy was his family. His life was marked by integrity, perseverance, and love—a legacy that will continue to inspire those who knew him. Over the last few months of his life, he expressed deep gratitude for a wonderful and blessed life, surrounded by the family he cherished most. Thank you to the staff of Briarwood for their compassionate and caring staff, and to Essence of Life Hospice, special thanks to Marisa for her commitment to Joe's wishes and well-being.