Joseph Frederick Lustig
January 31, 1982 ~ July 5, 2024
Joseph Frederick Lustig, 42, of Columbus, IN passed away on Friday, July 5, 2024 at his home. Joe was born in Columbus on January 31, 1982, to William F. “Bill” Lustig and Kristi Hall Lustig. He married Rachel Mills on September 7, 2002.
Joe was a dedicated employee at Columbus City Utilities, where his diligence and commitment were well-regarded by his colleagues. He was an active member of the Bethel Wesleyan Church where his resonant voice was a staple during church services, much to the delight of the congregation. Joe's faith was an important part of his life, guiding his actions and it brought much peace to him.
A man of diverse interests, Joe was known for his passion for movies. If his family wanted to know a good movie to watch, they called Joe. His dedication to fitness matched his enthusiasm for movies; he was an avid weightlifter, often found in his home gym “the dungeon” honing his strength. Joe was an avid fan of the UFC and enjoyed the occasional game of golf with his brother-in-law, Andrew.
One of Joe's endearing quirks was his penchant for tidiness. His spaces were always immaculate, reflecting the orderly and thoughtful manner in which he approached life. Joe's heart held a special place for his nieces and nephews. His love for them was evident in the joyous times they spent together, and he will be remembered as the fun and loving uncle who could always be counted on for a laugh or a supportive word.
The words that best encapsulate Joe are simply "loving." He was always happy to help when needed, extending kindness and compassion. Joe's legacy is one of love—love for his work, faith, hobbies, and most importantly, for the people in his life.
Joe's passing leaves a void in the Columbus community. He will be profoundly missed by his friends, family, and all who had the pleasure of experiencing his fun spirit. As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate the life of a man who brought so much light into the lives of others. Joseph Frederick Lustig's memory will be cherished and kept alive in the hearts of those he touched.
Funeral services will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, July 11, 2024 at Jewell-Rittman Family Funeral Home with Pastor Andrew Johnson and Pastor Gordon L. Tilley officiating. Calling hours will be from 3 p.m. until service time at 6 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to Bethel Wesleyan Church or National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) through the funeral home.
Survivors include his wife, Rachel Lustig; parents, Dr. William “Bill” (Debra) Lustig and Kristi Lustig; sisters, Megan Lustig, Lydia (Andrew) Johnson; brothers, Jake and Pete Lustig; nieces and nephews, Gavin Lustig, Eliza Johnson, Cooper Johnson, Sophia Lustig, Millie Lustig; aunt and uncle, Jeff and Vicki Hall; brothers-in-law, Timothy (Rosanne) Mills, Aaron (Vicky) Mills, Jon (Leslie) Mills and Sam (Cindy) Mills and several cousins, nieces and nephews.
Joe was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Pete and Rita Hall; paternal grandparents, William and Elizabeth Lustig; cousin, Luke Hall and Aunt, Cathy Coy






Cheryl C. planted a Memorial Tree in honor of Joseph Frederick Lustig.
Clark and Merri Wright purchased the Country Basket Blooms for the family of Joseph Frederick Lustig.
The late Russ Green shared kind memories of Joe as a student. Fishing at Joe’s Grandma Lustig’s lake, the conversations they shared. Sharon Green
Lit a candle in memory of Joseph Frederick Lustig
Susan Hill,Smith and family purchased the Full Of Love Bouquet for the family of Joseph Frederick Lustig.
Lit a candle in memory of Joseph Frederick Lustig
Lit a candle in memory of Joseph Frederick Lustig
Peaceful White Lilies Basket was purchased for the family of Joseph Frederick Lustig.
Love Jason and Erin Borders planted a Memorial Tree in honor of Joseph Frederick Lustig.
Lit a candle in memory of Joseph Frederick Lustig
Our family sends our condolences and prayers to Rachel, Doc, Kristi, and all the family on Joe’s passing. May God be with you at this time.
So sorry for your lost Kristi, Bill and family. we have you all in our thoughts and prayers
Mike & Wilma (Eckelman) Yeley and family purchased the Arrive in Style for the family of Joseph Frederick Lustig.
Angela S. planted a Memorial Tree in honor of Joseph Frederick Lustig.
We are sorry for your loss. My dad loved your family and would be very sad to hear the news if he was still here. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Angie, Brian & Tyler Duncan , Andy Johnson
Simply Elegant Spathiphyllum was purchased for the family of Joseph Frederick Lustig.
Moran and Broughton families. planted a Memorial Tree in honor of Joseph Frederick Lustig.
Lit a candle in memory of Joseph Frederick Lustig
Lit a candle in memory of Joseph Frederick Lustig
Am so sorry to year of your loss . You might remembef Morris . We certainly knew your family years ago. Much sympathany . Donna Watson
We are so sorry for you all. Joe and Racheal were very special to us at one time. Still are in our hearts. Just can’t believe. Kristi my heart goes out to you. Everyone is in our hearts and prayers. We love you all!!
Kim & Greg Meek
Beautiful in Blue was purchased for the family of Joseph Frederick Lustig.
Lee, Heather, Ava and Linda planted a Memorial Tree in honor of Joseph Frederick Lustig.
An external video has been added.
Florist Choice Bouquet was purchased for the family of Joseph Frederick Lustig.
Amber D. planted a Memorial Tree in honor of Joseph Frederick Lustig.
Princeton New Life Church of the Nazaren purchased the Simply Elegant Spathiphyllum for the family of Joseph Frederick Lustig.
Sharing our deepest sympathies and condolences to the family members of Joseph Lustig. There has been a donation to NAMI in his memory from the Turrell Family, (sister of Debbie Lustig/wife of Bill Lustig)
Dr. Lustig and Christie, I am so very sorry for your loss. You have my prayers and sympathies. Archele Snyder Humes
Very sorry to hear of Joe’s passing. You are all in our prayers. -Joyce & Tyler Howard