He was born November 26, 1946 in Rock Island, IL to Ray Emil Gourley and Thelma Rose (Haverstock) who have preceded him in death, as well as his sister Susan and brother Michael.
Joe is survived by his wife Linda (Brantley), his high school sweetheart of 53 years, his son Tim (Amanda) and his daughter Lori (Brad) McCue. He was blessed with five grandchildren, Austin, Alexis, Carlee, Carrie, and Johnny and a brother John from Crown Point, IN. His 3 fur babies Rosie, Smuggins and Bailey.
He graduated from LaPorte High School in LaPorte, IN in 1965. He joined the U.S. Navy as a Yeoman in the communications center in the engineering log room aboard the "infamous" USS Forrestal aircraft carrier in the fall of 1965. He was in the fight of his life after pilot error on the flight deck as the carrier went to the front line in the Gulf of Tonkin in July 29, 1967 during the Vietnam war. After fighting the fires to save the ship for 3 days he survived, while many shipmates did not make it and the pilot who errored was conveniently was whisked off out of harms way. Joe was just married for 6 months at the time. Upon returning home it was then that surviving the horrendous tragedy that he grew into the man so blessed, thankful of life, family, and friends.
It was in 1970 that he, his wife and young son moved to Arizona. He was able to promote himself into a talented and sought-after tradesman in several faucets of construction. He perfected his skills and was in part responsible for the rapid growth here in Phoenix over the years. Joe had a way of talking and getting his point across. His honesty got the best of him at times but the outcome would always be professional.
Joe had such a huge personality that would light up any room he was in. He had a positive effect of those who met him. His ability to make things right and the charm he emitted make you remember him. Little kids even saw him as a playmate. Not too long ago he recalled two little boys maybe 4 and 5 come knocking at our door asking if "Joey" could come out and play after he ate his dinner. All the while our son had been playing with these two little guys but they wanted "Joey."
Joe enjoyed the ocean, sitting at the beach on vacation in San Diego. He made it to Hawaii twice and it was a dream come true. He loved to ramble around and travel. In the last few years he and his wife were able to take vacations across country. The time spent without time constraints led him to much happiness. This time was priceless and nothing was spared when it came to making memories for his wife.
He made such a huge impact and imprint on anyone he came into contact with. He was larger than life and it came from his heart. He certainly is our family's blessing and will be forever in our hearts. While the family is heartbroken we had extended years due to his willpower and his love of family. He will always be our hero.
On Monday October 5, 2020 there will be a private family service at the Phoenix Veterans National Cemetery.
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