Joseph Wise Bryan

Joseph “Joe” Wise Bryan

Joseph “Joe” Wise Bryan, 36, of Hayden, Idaho, passed away on September 2, 2026.

Joe was born on October 19, 1989, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, to Michael Bryan and Mary Jane Bryan. He grew up in Dalton Gardens and attended Coeur d’Alene High School before continuing his education at North Idaho College and the University of Idaho.

Joe married Emily Diane Bryan (Hornung) on December 2, 2022, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Joe and Emily first met in middle school, but it wasn’t until years later that a random Facebook message turned into a first date, and then many more. Together, they raised Emily’s son, Dominic, and as a family enjoyed hikes, video games, movie nights, DIY projects, and plenty of silliness and laughter.

Joe will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, fun-loving spirit, and ability to make people laugh. He was unapologetically goofy, and the many, many stories of his memorable “Joe-isms” will continue to bring smiles and laughter to the people who knew and loved him for years to come.

Joe loved fantasy books and games and was a skilled Dungeons & Dragons player. He had a curious and creative mind, enjoyed reading about philosophy and religion, and was a talented writer. At home, he and Emily loved tackling DIY projects together. Most recently, Joe was especially proud of the “man cave” he created, a space of his own where he could read, listen to music, game, and unwind.

Joe also had an adventurous side. In early 2017, he set out on an incredible walkabout, traveling more than 1,400 miles on foot from the Oregon coast to Dubois, Wyoming. It was an accomplishment and adventure that remained a great source of pride for him.

Joe is survived by his wife, Emily Bryan; his stepson, Dominic Difatta; his father, Michael Bryan; his mother, Mary Jane Bryan; his sisters Hannah and Spencer Williams and their ten children, Sarah Zastrow and her five children, Leah and Seth Bernard and their three children, Rachel and Jared and their three children, Rebekah and Ben and their two children, and brother Seth and Bethany and their four sons; and many extended family members and friends who loved him deeply.

A celebration of Joe’s life will be held on Saturday, September 12th from 3-5 p.m. at The Hub: 4081 W. Riverbend Ave., Post Falls, ID 83854; where family and friends will gather to remember him, share stories, and celebrate the laughter and memories he leaves behind.

For those wishing to support Emily and Dominic during this difficult time, a GoFundMe has been established: https://www.gofundme.com/f/love-support-for-emily-dominic