Joseph Michael Lang, age 47, of White Bear Lake, died peacefully at home on February 23, 2026.
Joe had a way of making everyone feel like they mattered most. He carried a natural warmth that lit up every room, and his contagious enthusiasm and optimism turned even the simplest moments into something unforgettable.
Born and raised in Northfield, Joe was a natural athlete and a fierce, committed, all-in teammate. He played football and ran track in high school, then went on to play rugby in college at St. Cloud State and later for the St. Paul Pigs, where he was inducted into the Hall of Fame.
Joe and his wife Mindy built a beautiful life together in White Bear/Mahtomedi area, one centered around their three children and a home overflowing with love, laughter, and just the right amount of chaos.
Above all else, his children were the center of his world. He coached their basketball and baseball teams, cheered at countless dance competitions and soccer games, and never missed a chance to be their biggest fan. He encouraged them to follow their passions and was endlessly proud of who they were becoming. Even during his illness, he would wait all day for them to come home, just to be near them.
When cancer came back into Joe’s life, he welcomed a dog named Maggie, who quickly became his faithful companion and brought comfort and joy to the whole family.
Joe is survived by his wife, Mindy; children, Sloane, Chase, and Max; mother, Pauline; sisters, Lisa (Bryce), Lori (Peter), Robin (Lou), and Angie; many nieces, nephews, other relatives, friends, teammates, and of course, Maggie.
Joe’s life will be celebrated from 4-8 PM with memories shared at 5 PM on Friday, March 6th at Vadnais Heights Commons in Vadnais Heights. Come share your favorite Joe stories. Come laugh, connect, and celebrate his incredible life. We invite you to wear something that reflects your connection to Joe. Kids are welcome.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to support Sloane, Chase, and Max.
Services
SendOff: Friday, March 6, 2026 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Vadnais Heights Commons
655 County Rd F E
Vadnais Heights, MN 55127
Time of Sharing: Friday, March 6, 2026 5:00 pm
Vadnais Heights Commons
655 County Rd F E
Vadnais Heights, MN 55127

A thing I will never forget about Rubber, we
when he lead pre-game warm ups and visualization. It brought us all into a silent a peaceful place which usually helped us win our game.
Love and miss you Rubber
He was the best of all of us. It’s rare to have a fierce competitor who leads with compassion and kindness everytime, but tgat was Joe. If SCSU Rugby had a HOF he would be in it too. The St Paul Pigs will sing songs about Joe’s greatness forever. RIP friend. With you.
How always had a smile and a kind. His memory will live on through his wife Mindy and their beautiful children Sloan, Chase and Max. I am blessed to have known him and he will be missed 🙏