Oct. 7, 1960 - Feb. 12, 2013

CASSOPOLIS, Mich. - Joseph "Smokin' Joe" Kachoris, 52, passed away in his home Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2013, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born Oct. 7, 1960, he was the son of Joseph and Starr Helen (Culbertson) Kachoris, who both survive in Niles.

On Aug. 6, 2012, Joe married the love of his life, Tammy Cutler. She survives.

He is also survived by a son, Joshua Cutler of Cassopolis; daughter Brittney Starr Cihak of Tennessee; granddaughter Taylor Sue Cutler; brother Michael Joseph Kachoris of Austin; sister Linda (Bill) Klipple of Austin; and three loving nephews.

Joe proudly served our country as a U.S. Army paratrooper, and was honorably discharged in 1982. He loved adventure, was an active backpacker, hiker, and loved the mountains. He enjoyed high adrenaline sports, and was a pro street luger.

A celebration of life will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 16, 2013, at the American Legion on U.S. 12 E. in Edwardsburg.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the ASPCA or to Hospice at Home, St. Joseph.

To send condolences to the family please visit www.McGannHay.com.