Joe Hodge Sr.

Joe Hodge, Sr., 55, of Kansas City, Kansas, passed away Thursday, December 13, 2012 in Merriam, Kansas. A celebration of his life will begin at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 16th, at the Chapel Hill-Butler Funeral Home, 701 North 94th Street, Kansas City, Kansas. Friends may call after 2:00 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to Wayside Waifs, 3901 Martha Truman Road, Kansas City, Missouri, 64137.

Joe was born February 26, 1957 in Kansas City, Kansas to Donald and Frances Hodge. He was a lifelong area resident, graduating from Turner High School in 1975. He worked for the government of Wyandotte County, Kansas City Kansas for 20 years, before he retired in 1999. Joe loved all animals, especially dogs. He loved riding his Harley-Davidson, and he enjoyed classic and antique cars. He liked collecting all sorts of collectibles, including antiques, relics, and miniature cars and motorcycles. He also enjoyed visiting elderly people and talking with them, and he took care of his own mother in the later stages of her life.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, and his sister, Marsha Hodge.

Survivors include his wife of 23 years, Jan Hodge of the home; his son, Ronald J. Hodge, Jr. of Kansas City, Kansas; his daughter, Maggie S. J. Hodge of Kansas City, Kansas; and his faithful Canine Companion, Sparky, who is affectionately known as the Meanest Dog in Kansas City.

Fond memories and condolences may be left at www.chapelhill-butler.com, as service arrangements are under the direction of Chapel Hill-Butler Funeral Home, 701 North 94th Street in Kansas City, Kansas (913)334-3366.