Joseph A. Nordman III

Joseph A. Nordman III, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 18, 2026, at the age of 82. Born on March 2, 1944, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Joe lived a life filled with laughter, love, and unwavering dedication to his family, friends, and community.

Joe proudly served his country in the Ohio Air National Guard for six years, instilling in him a lifelong sense of discipline, service, and patriotism. He encouraged everyone around him-especially his children and grandchildren-to pursue education, embrace new experiences, and live with curiosity. As an active member of the Blue Ash Rotary Club, Joe exemplified community spirit and service.

A proud and devoted alum of Xavier High School, the University of Cincinnati, and Beta Theta Pi fraternity, Joe carried deep affection for each of his alma maters throughout his life. He made it a personal tradition to attend their sporting events, reunions, and gatherings, always celebrating the communities that shaped him and the friendships that lasted a lifetime.

An avid sports enthusiast, Joe dedicated his time coaching Little League football at his son's school as well as for the Hilltop Rams youth football club. His love of baseball led him to coach his son's team too, fostering a shared passion for sports that united his family and inspired the youth he mentored.

On August 19, 1972 at the Beverly Hills Supper Club, Joe married Frances "Fran" Hamblin. They met during his dental surgery and shared the exact same birthday -a coincidence that became a cherished part of their story. Together, they built a lifelong, unwavering love. Their bond was the quiet strength behind every chapter of his life: steadfast, joyful, and deeply devoted. They would have celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary the very next day, a testament to a partnership built on loyalty, laughter, and enduring affection. Even in his final moments, his love for her remained his greatest constant. Their nearly five decades together stand as one of his life's most beautiful accomplishments.

Together, Joe and Fran raised four children-and welcomed many others who considered their home a second home. Fran preceded him in death on January 25, 2022. Their oldest son and daughter‑in‑law, Michael Darrell and Bobbi Harmon, also preceded them in death.

Family dinners and time spent with loved ones were treasured traditions in the Nordman household. On a moment's notice, Joe and Fran would encourage their children-Michael, Kevin, J.A., and Gabrielle-to invite friends over for dinner, a game of pool, or swimming in the family's backyard pool. Joe delighted in watching cartoons or National Geographic with his children and grandchildren, always ready to teach, laugh, and create lasting memories. He took great pride in his home of 50 years, especially his in‑ground pool, where he found daily peace in the simple ritual of vacuuming it-his personal moment of reflection and calm.

His parents, the late Joseph and Mary Jane (née Leaf) Nordman, hosted Christmas Eve celebrations filled with food, family, and beloved neighbors-a tradition Joe continued with enthusiasm. His love for Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and New Year's Eve was legendary. He opened his home with warmth, hospitality, and magnificent feasts, welcoming all who entered. With an "open‑door" policy year‑round, there were no strangers in Joe's home-only friends who soon became family.

Joe's legacy of love, laughter, and generosity will continue to inspire all who knew him. He leaves behind a lifetime of kindness and devotion to his family. He is survived by his sons, Kevin Harmon and J.A. Nordman IV; his daughter and son‑in‑law, Gabrielle and Adam Krauss; grandchildren Jessica (Evan) Jones, Stephan Harmon, Corinna (Chris) Bayes, Mike (Hannah) Harmon, Parker Krauss, Grayson Krauss, and Brooklyn Krauss; great‑grandchildren Leah and Lincoln Jones, and Ryan Harmon; siblings Ambrose and Jean Nordman, Mary Lu Roby and Bernie Lower, and Valerie and Steve Gibbons; along with many nieces, nephews, and countless lifelong friends.

A memorial service will be held 4:00 PM, Saturday, September 12, 2026 with visitation from 2:30 pm until the time of service at the Evans Funeral Home, 741 Center St. Milford, OH 45150. His family invites all who knew and loved Joe to partake in honoring his memory together.

In lieu of flowers, his family encourages contributions to be made in Joe's name to the Blue Ash Rotary Club, c/o Rotary Club of Northeast Cincinnati, PO Box 428842, Cincinnati, OH 45242, reflecting his commitment to community and service.

Rest in peace, Joe. Your light will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew you.