Joseph G. Blome

Born June 28, 1952 in West Point, Nebraska, he was the son of Joe and Julia (Remm) Blome. He married Karen Cockerham on September 2, 1972. She survives.

Also surviving are four children, Denise (Sean) Wittmer, Daniel (Sara) Blome, Steven Blome and Jonathan Blome; nine grandchildren, Joseph Wittmer, Katherine Wittmer, Elizabeth Wittmer, Abigail Wittmer, Roscoe Blome, Cooper Alig, Scarlet Blome, Anabelle Mullen and Lennon Blome; five great-grandchildren, Olivia Wittmer, Cecilia Wittmer, Aiden Wittmer, Kamryn Wittmer and Evelyn Wittmer; three sisters, JoAnna Cessna, Jolene Blobaum and JoEllen (Steven) Stoddard and his mother-in-law, Ruby Cockerham.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one grandson, Andrew Wittmer.

Joe was a veteran of the United Stated Army.

He worked for Komatsu America Corporation in Peoria for 39 years before retiring in 2015.

Joe enjoyed spending time outdoors. He enjoyed taking care of his lawn, mowing, gardening, tending to flowers and his bird houses. He also enjoyed wood working and working on home improvement projects for his family. He was also a fan of stock car racing, Aksarben racing and an avid reader. Joe was also a fan of the Chicago cubs, despite their performance and Nebraska Corn Huskers football.

His son said of him “Last night, my dad left us. He was the best man I have ever known. He taught me about loyalty, respect, hard work, humility, to always do the right thing, and the power of the well placed sarcastic remark. He worked hard his whole life. Loved his family fiercely, and will be missed by so, so many. Love you, pops.”

“No one is finally dead until the ripples they cause in the world die away” -Terry Pratchett”

A gathering celebrating Joe’s life will be held at a later date. Cremation has been accorded by Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin.

Memorials may be given to American Legion Post # 20, PO Box 1016, Fremont, Nebraska 68025.

To express condolences online. visit www.preston-hanley.com