Joseph Michael Milligan

   Joseph Michael Milligan, one of four children of Joseph Jackson and Anna Marion (Mulheran) Milligan, was born June 23, 1956, in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania.  Joe graduated from Monsignor Bonner Catholic School, where he excelled at soccer and was named to the 73-74 All Catholic Championship Soccer Team.  After high school, Joe was offered a full ride scholarship to play soccer but felt compelled to join the military and serve his country instead. 

   On July 31, 1974, Joe enlisted in the United States Navy.  He received training in nuclear propulsion and became a submariner.  He received a National Defense Service Medal and Good Conduct Award during his service.  On July 31, 1980, Joe was honorably discharged. 

  After his discharge, Joe used his Naval training to begin working in the Nuclear Power Industry.  Joe worked at various Nuclear Power Plants across the country for many years before his most recent employment at Cooper Nuclear Station in Brownville, Nebraska. 

   Joe was blessed with three children with Joyce Milligan:  Courtney, Scott, and Daniel.  On July 21, 2007, he was united in marriage to Joan Black at Jensen Beach, Florida, and would gain Joan’s son, Brett.

   At a young age, Joe received his first guitar and would become hooked from the very start.  He loved playing and writing his own music.  He played in bands throughout his life, often starting new bands with people from work.  Joe loved his work, and he loved his family.  Growing up in the Philadelphia area, he became a huge Eagles fan, also cheering for whatever team happened to be playing the Cowboys.    

   On Saturday, September 16, 2023, Joe unexpectedly passed away, having reached the age of 67 years, 2 months, and 24 days.  He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Craig. 

   Those left to mourn his passing include his wife Joan Milligan of Auburn; daughter and son-in-law Courtney Milligan and Chad Hurlburt of Richmond, TX; sons Scott Milligan of Petaluma, CA, Daniel Milligan; step-son Brett (Toni) Erzen of Painesville, OH; grandchildren Sadie, Keagan, and Breanain Hurlburt; sisters Lisa Paci of Philadelphia, PA, Tracy Reeser of Dunedin, FL; sisters-in-law Chris Luebbers, Claudia Busby; brothers-in-law Thomas F. (Susan) Black, Jr., Joseph (Katy) Black, Jon (Julie) Black; other relatives and friends.  

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, September 26, 2023, 6:00 p.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Auburn.  A reception will follow in the Halligan Center at the church.  Holy Hour of Adoration will be held on Thursday, September 21, 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the church. 

Memorials are suggested in lieu of flowers to St. Joseph Catholic Church