David Joe Rorig, age 79, of Brownstown, passed away on Sunday evening, January 18, 2026, at I.U Health, Indianapolis.

Joe was baptized in Christ at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Medora and later, together with his wife, became a devoted member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Brownstown.

Joe actively served in the Indiana National Guard. In 1972, he began his career in law enforcement, serving for many years as a deputy before dedicating himself to the role of Sheriff of Jackson County from 1982 to 1990. He had a strong passion for farming and gardening and enjoyed riding and trading horses and mules, as well as spending winters in Arizona. He was also a proud member of the Ambitious Young Farmers group, a friend to many, and never met a stranger.

Family was very important to Joe. He especially loved his grandsons and cherished spending time with them. His greatest joy was hosting and traveling to rodeos to watch them compete, always being so proud of them and being their biggest fan.

Born on June 29, 1946, in Seymour, Joe was the son of Edgar and Esther (McNiece) Rorig, both of whom preceded him in death. On February 5, 1967, at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, Brownstown, he married Carol Ann Lubker, and she survives in Brownstown.

Survivors also include one daughter, Carol Dawn (Anthony) Rorig-Simmons of Pacifica, California; two sons: Brian David Rorig of Brownstown, and Darin Joe (Sherry) Rorig of Brownstown; and two grandsons: Jacob Rorig and Joshua Rorig, both of Brownstown.

Funeral services for David Joe Rorig will be conducted at 12:00 noon on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, Brownstown, with Pastor Ryan Schneider officiating. Friends may call from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at Spurgeon Funeral Home, Inc., Brownstown, and from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 12:00 noon on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, Brownstown.

Interment will follow at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church Cemetery.

Memorials may be given to St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, Brownstown, or the American Heart Association.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the caring staff at Spurgeon Funeral Home, Inc.

Online memories and condolences may be given at www.spurgeonfh.com