Joseph Nakai “Cionazi”, age 44, of Nekoosa, passed away Monday, August 27, 2018 at Marshfield Medical Center in Marshfield.

Visitation will be from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 29 at Cex Haci Community Building in Nekoosa, followed by Native American Church Services.  Stuart Lonetree will officiate.  Commitment services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 30 also at Cex Haci.  Burial will follow at Dexterville Cemetery.

Joseph was born May 13, 1974 in Wisconsin Rapids to Dick and Elaine Nakai.

He was a firefighter and a heavy machine operator trainer in Montana.  When he moved back to central Wisconsin he worked hard count at Rainbow Casino and as a retail associate at Whitetail Crossing.  Joseph loved to play guitar and drums.  He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing grilling out and bonfires.  He also enjoyed shooting pool, lifting weights and playing Warcraft on the computer.  He was proud of his Native American heritage and loved to drum and sing native songs.

Joseph is survived by his spouse, Ramona McDonald; four children: Jessica Nakai, Myra Nakai, Cionazi Nakai, and Taahnazhi Nakai; grandchildren: Mariah Thompson, Miyako Thompson and Tasuna Thompson; his father, Dick Nakai; siblings: Irene Fruit, Richard Nakai and Casper Nakai.  He was preceded in death by his grandparents and his mother, Elaine Nakai.

Herman-Taylor Funeral Home in Wisconsin Rapids is honored to be serving the family.