Aug 03, 1941---Aug 23, 2026

Joseph B. (Joe) Zucht. II died in his home in Lenexa, Kansas on August 23, 2026 at the age of 85. A Celebration of Life / Roast for Joe will be schedule soon. His family requests no flowers and suggests memorial contributions to Gentiva Hospice who provided amazing end of life for him.

Joe was born in San Antonio, TX on August 3, 1941 but grew up and claimed Albuquerque, New Mexico as his home of origin. His parents were Joseph B. Zucht, I and Doris Greene. He was an only child because no parents could raise two children like Joe. He received his bachelor’s degree from Parsons College in Fairfield, Iowa, now known as the Maharishi International University.

Subsequent to a few jobs Joe was employed with Becton Dickinson (BD) for more than 30 years. He claimed that at least 5 of those years were happy! Joe loved his retirement and traveled to horse racing tracks and to handicapping tournaments as often as possible. His most current passion was fantasy football where he was known as The Legend.

He was famous for his humor and wit and was loved by many for his love of life, his family, his pets and his friends. He was a rabid fan of his beloved Chiefs, Jayhawks, Royals and KC Kings. His only regret would be that his death preceded the current president’s.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his son, Cord Zucht (Shelley Zucht) and granddaughter, Hannah Zucht; his son, Joseph B. Zucht, III; his daughter, Kristen Zucht (Jordan Carlson); and his long term life companion, Lori Sanders. 



Condolences

Jack T Bantley Aug 26, 2026

Friend and former colleague ,Lake Wylie ,South Carolina

Joe, You will be missed. Always enjoyed an Oban or Grolsch when visiting. My condolences to Lori and family. Love ya, Jack

Tennis Brothers Aug 27, 2026

Joe and family - On behalf of the tennis community, our condolences, thoughts and prayers to your family on your loss.

Denny Hamlin Aug 28, 2026

Colleague and long time friend ,Ridgway ,Colorado

Joe was my friend for close to 60 years! What can I say, Joe was funny, witty intelligent and most of all a very unique character who could make one laugh at the drop of a hat! Joe as a writer was the Hemingway of the world! A talented individual whom I am sure will be missed by many! My condolences to Lori and the family! Denny Hamlin

Kelly Clem Aug 29, 2026

Friend and colleague ,Kansas City ,Missouri

Joe was just one of those people that by saying his name I laugh! I have so many memories filled with pranks, sarcasm and laughter, while at the same time he had a huge heart! Lori and family you are in my thoughts and prayer's and please know that he left an impact on my life and a legacy for those who called him friend and colleague! Blessings

Bill Neal Sep 01, 2026

Old old friend ,Holiday Island ,Arkansas

Praying for you! Your old partner in gambling, golfing, drinking and Life Philosophy. Joe was a wonderful human being!!!!

andrew kushner Sep 03, 2026

Friend ,Overland Park ,Kansas

I am so glad to have gotten to know Joe, and I know that his friends and family have countless entertaining memories to keep his soul in their lives.

Chuck Osborn Sep 07, 2026

Friend ,Sulphur Springs ,Texas

Sad to hear of the passing of Joe. He was my best man in my wedding in 1967 We shared an apartment in North KC prior to the wedding. I was a groom's man in his wedding. We shared political views as they relate to our current resident of the White House. I assisted him getting his job at BD as I was employed by them at the time. RIP, old friend. Sorry, but I cannot attend your Memorial roast.

Kenneth Packard Sep 08, 2026

Friend and co-worker ,BEL AIR ,Maryland

When I transferred to Omaha as a BD medical sales rep., Joe would come up to show me the ropes. I soon learned that "the ropes" meant playing video games at the hotel for an hour, make two quick sales calls, then go to the local race track. He showed me how to handicap the horses. Three of us (Dennis Hamlin) played hooky from work for an entire week and went fly fishing in WY. I loved the guy and regret that I moved so far away that we couldn't maintain that great, fun relationship. Rest well my friend.

Photo Gallery