It is with heavy hearts that the family of Joseph W. Nevers Jr. of West Springfield announces his passing on October 1, 2026, at Baystate Medical Center. Born in Springfield on May 13, 1935, to the late Joseph W. Sr. and Mary (Kulik) Nevers.Joe loved sports, hockey most of all – he began playing at a young age. He was a 'rink rat', working and getting lessons at the old barn - also known as the Coliseum. He was a proud member of the 1952 West Springfield High Hockey State Champs Team. Joe would continue to play hockey well into his late 70's and watch every Bruins game. Behind hockey was a love for baseball - playing for West Side High and for the South End Little Devils and always rooting for the Red Sox. Joe graduated from West Springfield High School in 1953. Following high school, Joe began working at the Springfield Armory and then enlisted in the United States Army. He was a proud veteran and could often be seen wearing his Korean War Veteran hat. When he returned from the service, he met his wife, Marlene Bouley and they married in September 1960. Following his military service, he established his lifelong career at Western Massachusetts Electric Company where he was a lineman. After an industrial accident, Joe returned to work while attending night courses at AIC to become an overhead engineer and he would retire from WMECO with a 30 year career. He had a passion for riding Harley's, attending the Belknap races, riding with friends, participating in Toy Runs and riding downtown to Bike Night at Stearns Square. Joe was a long-time apheresis donor, even being acknowledged for his donations on the field with his family at Fenway Park. Joe and Marlene shared many wonderful years at Matunuck Beach, RI where they built lifelong friendships and countless memories. Leaving his family with lasting memories are his wife of 66 years Marlene (Bouley) Nevers, his daughter Linda and Russell Turner of Agawam, his son David Nevers and Krista Buoniconti of West Springfield. Grandchildren Callie Fruiwirth, Freddie Fruiwirth, Samantha Fruiwirth and great grandchild Mackenzie Fruiwirth. Along with his family, Joe leaves behind many dear friends and relatives. The family would like to acknowledge the wonderful care Joe received at Baystate Medical Center – thank you to all on the 5th and 7th floor of the Mass Mutual Wing. Calling hours for Joe will be held Monday October 12, 2026, from 4-6PM at the Toomey-O’Brien Funeral Home 1043 Westfield St West Springfields. A funeral home service will be Tuesday at 1PM followed by burial with military honor at 2PM at the Mass Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery in Agawam. Donations can be made to Wounded Warriors or Shriner’s Children Hospital.