Joseph "Joe" Gorges

Joseph Gorges was a man who enjoyed the simple things in life and was happiest doing the things he loved most. He had a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors and could often be found driving the back roads of western Sedgwick County, simply enjoying the countryside and seeing what was going on.

Joe was extremely witty, with a quick sense of humor and a knack for delivering a perfectly timed comment. You could always count on him for a clever remark, often delivered so matter-of-factly that it took you a second to realize just how funny he was. His wit and sense of humor were unmistakably Joe and will be greatly missed by those who knew him best.

His grandchildren held an especially important place in Joe’s heart. Some of his most treasured times were the simple ones spent with them, including the many trips out for pancakes. Those breakfasts were about much more than pancakes—they were time together, conversations, laughter, and memories that became special traditions for Joe and his grandchildren.

Joe also had a special place in his heart for dogs. Over the years, he had many loyal companions, including a memorable succession of dogs named “Checkers.” And Checkers’ birthday was never just another day—it called for a proper celebration, always complete with Pizza Hut pizza and Pepsi. It was one of those uniquely Joe traditions that his family will always remember.

Joe was a man of routine, and perhaps no routine was better known to his family than his Saturday morning “rounds.” Every Saturday, Joe made his way around to visit family, stopping in to catch up and see what everyone was doing. His timing was so dependable that you could practically set your watch by his arrival. The rounds became a familiar and treasured part of Saturday mornings and a tradition his family will especially miss.

Anyone who knew Joe also knew that eating out was practically a hobby. He enjoyed visiting local restaurants—often many times a week—and the routine, familiar faces, and conversations that came along with it. A good meal followed by a drive around the countryside made for a pretty good day in Joe’s book.

Professionally, Joe was a longtime Certified Public Accountant for Maverick Company. He took great pride in his career and genuinely enjoyed his work, which remained an important part of his life for many years.
Retirement didn’t mean Joe was ready to stop putting miles on the road. He continued traveling the roads of Kansas as a driver for the American Red Cross—a role that suited a man who had always enjoyed being behind the wheel and seeing where the road would take him.

His rounds may have come to an end, but the stories, laughter, traditions, and memories he left along the way will continue for generations.

Joe is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Lucille Gorges; wife, Brenda Gorges; brothers, John, Don and Gerald Gorges; and sister, Ruth Goertz. He is survived by his son, Nicholas Gorges and his wife, Jacqueline; grandchildren, Lily Gorges, Genevieve Gorges, Leon Gorges; brothers – in law and wives, Bobby and Debbie Armstrong, Rick and Glenda Powell, Rick and Donna Armstrong; numerous nieces, nephews and additional family members.

Rosary will be 7:00 pm, Thursday, September 10, 2026; Funeral Mass will be 1:00 pm, Friday, September 11, 2026, both at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 318 Rush Avenue, Andale, Kansas 67001.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established with: American Red Cross, 707 North Main Street, Wichita, Kansas 67203.

Services in care of Downing & Lahey West Mortuary.