Joe Earl Cribley

Joe Earl Cribley of Eaton Rapids, Michigan, passed away on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at the age of 86. Joe was born on December 31, 1939, in Potterville, Michigan, the son of Emanuel and Irene (Merrill) Cribley. He was raised in Eaton Rapids, where he attended local schools.

Joe began his working career at Eaton Stamping in Eaton Rapids and later went on to work for General Motors at the Fisher Body plant, where he remained until his retirement in 1996.

Joe had a lifelong passion for motorcycles and fast cars. He owned numerous muscle cars, which he kept in showroom condition and often spoke fondly of, especially those he regretted selling. He also competed in motorcycle drag racing, riding his bike known as “Snorten Morton,” and earned the nickname “The Flying Frenchman.” In his younger years, Joe was a familiar face at Bouts Motorcycle Shop in Eaton Rapids. He was an avid NASCAR fan and took pride in owning the first 409 in Eaton Rapids. Joe was also an enthusiastic collector of firearms.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Doris Cribley, Richard Cribley, Charles (Normajean) Cribley, Bill Cribley, Louise Babcock, Betty Adkins, and Clarabelle Scutt; and his nephew, Rex Scutt.

Joe is survived by his children, Penny Cribley, Jodie (Roger) Kellogg, and Timothy Cribley; his grandchildren, Shawn Kellogg, Kristy (Gavin) Kelsey, Amanda Hawkins, and Brandi Lee; and his great-grandchildren, Kiera, Bella, Guinever, Travis, Cloe, and Carson. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids. The family will receive friends beginning at 10 a.m., with a meal to follow the service.  To share memories or leave online condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.