Joseph M. Hurtovenko , 60, Minot, died on Wednesday, April 30, 2008, in his home.

Joseph was born August 7, 1947, in Minot, ND to Mike and Elizabeth (Rennich) Hurtovenko. Following the death of his parents, at the age of five, he was raised by his mother's sister: Emma Larson and her husband Lewis. He was educated in the Minot Public School System and graduated from Minot High School in 1965. He worked for the City of Minot in various departments before his induction into the United States Army on January 11, 1968. He served in Thailand until being honorably discharged on December 23, 1969.

Joseph was united in marriage to Darlene Nechiporenko on October 8, 1971 in Minot. They made their home in Minot. He continued to work for the City of Minot until he began employment as a mechanic for Midland Diesel in the early 1970's. He became manager of Midland Diesel in 1998 and continued his employment until ill health forced him to retire.

Joseph loved cars and watching NASCAR before it was a big time sport. He enjoyed this passion with his family and others as a member of the Dakota Cruisers of Minot. His final project was rebuilding the engine of his son's 1979 Mustang. He also enjoyed many weekends with friends and family at Rice Lake. He will be missed by all who shared in his life.

Surviving family includes: Loving wife of 36 years: Darlene, Minot; Son: Quinn (Kandice Quandt) Hurtovenko, Minot; Sisters: Lydia Bailey, Des Moines, IA and Cathy (Ed) Zumbaum, Minot, ND; Brother: Al (JoAnne) Larson, Minot; Sisters In Law: Linda (Gary) Hovde, Shirley Griffitt, Minot, ND; Mother In Law: Ruth (Elmer) Kastner, Minot, ND, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Joseph was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Victor Hurtovenko , Walter Rennich and guardians Emma and Lewis Larson.

Funeral: Monday, May 5, 2008, at 10:00 a.m. at Christ Lutheran Church, Minot;
Interment: Rosehill Memorial Park, Minot;
Visitation: Sunday, May 4, 2008, from noon until 5:00 p.m. at the Thomas Family Funeral Home of Minot.
Memorials: Memorials are preferred to the American Cancer Society.