Joe Tiao, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on August 19, 2026, at Saddleback Memorial Hospital in Laguna Hills, California, due to complications from his hospitalization for pneumonia. He was 93 years old.

Born on October 18, 1932, in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, Joe’s life was a testament to perseverance, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. Embodying the principles of hard work and intellectual curiosity, Joe earned his first master’s degree in Economics from Aoyama Gakuin University in Shibuya, Japan, then went on to break new ground as one of the first graduates to earn a master’s degree in Computer Science from Kansas State University.

Joe began his professional journey at Kansas State University, working for 14 years in the Agricultural Economics department. His career then took a new direction, and for 40 years he built a reputation as a dedicated property manager and owner in Manhattan, Kansas. Throughout these decades, Joe developed strong and lasting relationships, remembered by many for his keen attention to detail, his sense of humor, his love of sports, and his remarkable ability to recall the faces and apartment numbers of every tenant he worked with.

Joe’s life in Manhattan, Kansas, was marked not only by his professional achievements but also by the loving family he nurtured and the community he built around him. Arriving in Kansas with only a few dollars, he achieved the American Dream through determination and a steadfast work ethic. In 1987, he realized one of his proudest ambitions by building his dream house on 3.5 acres, an enduring symbol of his achievements and hopes for the future.

A strong-willed and strong-minded individual, Joe possessed an incredibly sharp mind, especially for numbers and directions—traits admired by those who knew him well. He carried deep passions for the causes he held close, dedicating his time and resources in support of Kansas State University and the cause of Taiwanese independence through both philanthropy and volunteering. His generosity extended to assisting many Taiwanese international students who came to Kansas State University during his 56 years in Manhattan, offering support and guidance as they found their own paths in a new country.

Outside of his professional and philanthropic endeavors, Joe was a man of varied interests and lifelong enthusiasm. He was a committed fan of K-State football, loved playing tennis, and fond memories of fishing and golfing in his younger days. He was also an avid reader, especially fond of Japanese books, reflecting his deep appreciation for learning and culture.

Joe’s memory will be cherished by those he leaves behind: his devoted wife, Inge; his loving children, Ann and William; his much appreciated son-in-law, Robert; and his treasured grandchildren, Kyla, Jeremy, Isabelle, and Audrey.

Friends and acquaintances are invited to attend a funeral service for Joe Tiao on August 27, 2026, from 2:00 p.m., at McCormick & Son Mortuaries and Crematory, located at 1795 Laguna Canyon Rd, Laguna Beach, California.

Joe’s dedication to family, education, and community has inspired all who knew him. His legacy will continue to resonate in the lives he touched, the people he helped, and the family who loved him deeply.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial for Joe Tiao has been established at the Kansas State University Foundation to support the Taiwan-US Global Learning Fund. Contributions may be sent to: KSU Foundation, 1800 Kimball Ave., Ste 200, Manhattan, KS 66502, please indicate fund M47535. To make a gift online, go to www.ksufoundation.org/give/memorials.