Joseph A. Birsen

Joseph A. Birsen, a beloved husband, father, brother, friend, and lifelong carpenter, passed away suddenly on April 14, 2026, at his home in Middleburgh, NY.

Joe’s journey began on May 6, 1963, in Queens, NY, born to Mary (Johnston) and Kenneth Birsen. Shortly after, his family moved upstate to Breakabeen, NY, where Joe experienced the joy of growing up in a small town, making friends he would keep for the rest of his life. Joe's spirit was as loud and outgoing as it was generous. His booming voice, hearty laughter, and ever-present smile were unmistakable and brought light to every room he entered. Beneath this vibrant exterior, however, lay very a tender soul and a very big heart. He hid these well, but was always ready to help anyone, anytime, and in any way. Year after year, he generously donated his time to helping his wife build sets for the school musicals, and volunteering for the MCS Booster Club – usually as grill master. Whenever Robin asked him for help, he was always there, no questions asked.

After graduating from MCS in ‘81, he honed his skills and became a lifelong carpenter, eventually joining Carpenter's Local #291 in Albany in 2000. His craftsmanship was a reflection of his steadfast work ethic and pride in what he accomplished. Yet, it was his children whom Joe regarded as his proudest accomplishments. To him, Jacob, Matthew, and Emma were the center of his universe, and no joy compared to witnessing their growth and achievements.

Joe was a man of passions and adventures. He loved cheering on the Chicago Cubs and the Raiders, playing golf at the Cobleskill Golf and Country Club, where he was a member for almost 20 years, and snowmobiling with his friends and his children. Joe had a lifelong love of music, and he never passed up the opportunity to go to a concert, especially if it was The Grateful Dead. And no one could convince you that you needed to participate and buy an arm's length of raffle tickets like Joe, especially during school musicals. There are countless stories too, of his readiness for adventure, although he always enjoyed spending quality time with his wife. Joe and Robin were in the middle of planning a cross-country road trip for their 30th wedding anniversary this summer. Robin was doing all the planning, and Joe was just providing mere ‘inspiration’…

Amidst the hustle and hurry of life, he treasured the tranquil moments found playing with his beloved dogs (and kids) at the Schoharie Creek. The bond Joe shared with his canine companions was profound, a true testament to his gentle nature. "Man's best friend" found their best friend in Joe. His cats did as well, though Joe would never have admitted it, despite photographic evidence!

Memories of Joe shine brightly in many corners of his life, none brighter than the hearts of his family and friends who will hold and love him forever, including his loving wife of 29 and a half years: Robin Grupinski; sons: Jacob Birsen and Matthew Birsen; and daughter: Emma Birsen; siblings: Joan (Kevin) Kisielis, Patricia (Bill) Williams, and James (Karen) Birsen; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends including his brother-in-love: Jim MacMillan; and sisters-in-law: Kimberly Birsen and Terri Birsen. He was predeceased by his parents and brothers: Kenneth Birsen and Robert Birsen; and by his nephews: Shane Kisielis, Nicholas Birsen, and Brian Birsen.

All are invited to a visitation from 4:00 to 7:00 PM on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at Coltrain Funeral Home, LLC, 134 River St, Middleburgh, NY. Following the visitation, a celebration of Joe's life will be held at 7:00 PM at the Funeral Home.

Joe's family request memorial donations in his honor be sent to the Schoharie Valley Animal Shelter, PO Box 40, Howes Cave, NY 12092.