Joseph Albert Lake

Over the course of his life, Joe embodied the best of qualities: unconditional love, an unwavering work ethic, and an unending generosity that could be seen in his care for his family, along with the countless others he impacted during his life.

Joe is preceded in death by the love of his life, his wife, Shirley J. Lake. Married for nearly 60 years, Joe and Shirley’s partnership was an example to many of true love and devotion. Together, they were a force to be reckoned with and they leave behind an incredible legacy. The family is comforted knowing Joe and Shirley are now reunited for eternity.

Full of energy, Joe was highly active throughout his entire life and enjoyed being outdoors. As a young adult he was a gifted baseball player and served his country in the U.S. Air Force. He also enjoyed fishing, coaching youth sports, and caring for his house and property. In retirement, he could often be found doing projects around his home or out on his land on one of his favorite lawnmowers.

Above all else, Joe valued family and demonstrated so in all that he did. Joe was known for preaching the motto “family first” and would go above and beyond to support those in his life in any way he could.

As a role model to many, Joe's memory continues to inspire those he left behind. He is survived by sons and daughters-in-law: Joseph (Joe) E. & Cassandra Lake and Terry L. & Tina Lake; granddaughter: Courtney L. Lake (& Jared); great-grandchildren: Landon, Tyler, and Avery; and siblings: Edna L. Blakley, Frances F. Cook, William (Bill) E. Lake, and Jack A. Lake.

In addition to his wife, Joe is preceded in death by his parents: Albert (Al) J. & Laura D. Lake; and siblings: Frederick (Fred) C. Lake, Rose R. Whitehurst, Janet A. Dennison, Karl E. Lake, Laura J. (Judy) Harris, and Linda Mae Hamilton.

Throughout his life, Joe taught his sons resilience by giving them space to make their own mistakes but was always there to help pick them back up. He taught his granddaughter life lessons through his trademark fables and stories, and always supported her ambitions. In his final years, Joe enjoyed visits with his three great-grandchildren, who adored their ‘Great-Papa’ and will remember his humor and compassion.

As Joe prioritized helping others and living every day to the fullest, the family asks that you do the same - live every day by finding joy in the little things and sharing that joy with those around you.

In honor of his final wishes, a Visitation for family and friends will be held from 9:00-10:00 am on Thursday, September 19, 2024 at Merritt Funeral Home Brooksville (2 South Lemon Avenue, Brooksville, FL 34601), where Funeral Services begin at 10:00am. A Graveside Service will follow at 11:30 am with military honors at Florida National Cemetery, 6502 SW 102nd Avenue, Bushnell, FL 33513.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73123 www.cancer.org.