On March 11th, 1952, Joe enlisted in the United States Navy at the ripe age of just 17 years, and would travel via sea craft all over the world and return with stories of Rome, Italy, and Greece that his future grandchildren would fondly remember listening to. In April of 1960, Joe welcomed his first child, Sheri, and a short thirteen months later welcomed his son, Joseph Jr. Whilst blessed with two beautiful children, his first marriage was not meant to be, and on May 28th, 1966, Joe married the love of his life, Loretta Machalek. In April of 1974, the family of four was joined by another lovely little girl, Juanita. In 1972, the family made the decision to pack up and move across the country to Portland, Oregon to be closer to Loretta’s family.
Throughout the many years of living a content life in southeast Portland, making lifelong friends and all the trials and tribulations that come along with raising three strong-willed, vibrant children, Joe was first blessed with a grandson from Sheri, and then Juanita gifted him with one more grandson and three granddaughters. At the time of his death on January 26th, 2022, Joe had two great-grandsons and a third on the way. Unfortunately, he was only able to meet one of his great-grandchildren, but the smile that lit up his face on the day he got to meet Beau will live on in the hearts of everyone who was in the room to witness the encounter. It is moments like those that are fondly thought of, especially in this harrowing time after his passing. Joe often came across as a staunch man, but it was in those moments that people were able to bear witness to the loving and gentle side of him that truly cared for those around him. It is these memories that we must all remember when the burden of grief feels too heavy and know that he wouldn’t want anyone to mourn his passing, but rejoice in the full life he lead.
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