Joseph “Joe” Lee Treib of Belfield, North Dakota, passed away on November 5, 2025, at the age of 69. Born on August 21, 1956, Joe was a man of quiet strength, deep loyalty, and a steadfast western spirit that defined both his life and his character.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Elizabeth “Betty” Treib and Nicholas “Nick” Treib. He is survived by his children, Jennifer Henrichs and Justin Treib, with his family, Kylie and son Liam; his sister, Doris Urban, and husband Elroy, along with their children Randy, Scott, Tammy, and Shelly; his brother, Tim Treib, and wife Shelley, together with their sons Micheal and Matthew; his brother Ken Treib, wife Suzanne, and Ken’s daughters, Pam and Daun; and one additional brother.
In his early years Joe spent time as a ranch hand and working at livestock sale barns across the Dakotas and Montana, fully embracing the rugged lifestyle he loved. He later moved to Clarkston, Washington, where he lived for several years before returning to Belfield in 1979. Though he left again for Clarkston in 1990, Belfield always remained home in his heart. In 2013, he returned once more to the place and people that had shaped him.
A respected and talented equipment operator, Joe could drive anything with tires and most things without. He had a deep love for horses, enjoying both riding and driving his buggy behind a team. While in Clarkston, Joe was blessed with his friend Don Richardson, as well as many others. Together, they spent many hours in the saddle seeing some beautiful landscape, including time in the Bob Marshall and Frank Church Wilderness areas. Joe also spent time volunteering with the Nez Perce County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse.
In recent years, he had planned to retire in Lemmon, South Dakota, where he looked forward to doing the things he loved, and staying connected to the land and lifestyle he cherished. He was also a hunter and fisherman and had recently purchased a boat, excited to spend time fishing with close friends and family during retirement.
Known for his private nature and unwavering western mentality, Joe lived life on his own terms—with grit, grace, and a deep respect for the outdoors and the animals he loved. His absence leaves a quiet ache in the hearts of those who knew him, and he will be missed beyond measure.
Joe’s Celebration of Life Service will be held 10:30 a.m., Saturday, November 15, 2025 at Belfield Lutheran Church, Belfield, with Rev. Mike Pretzer as officiant. Inurnment will take place at Greenhill Cemetery, Lemmon, SD.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame, Medora, ND.
Until we meet again, father, brother, and friend.
