Joseph Corral Govea passed away on Wednesday, October 18, 2023. Born May 14, 1925, in North Hollywood, California, he was raised in San Fernando in a large, close-knit family. At the age of 18, at the height of the Second World War, he was drafted into the U.S. Army. He proudly served his country as an Infantryman in the First Infantry Division in Europe. On December 20, 1944 he was seriously wounded in the Battle of the Bulge and returned home following the war’s conclusion. As a decorated World War II veteran, he has been recognized for his service with numerous awards and honors, including the Combat Infantry Badge, the Bronze Star, two Purple Hearts, and the French Legion of Honor Medal for participation in the liberation of France.
When he returned home he pursued a career in construction as a journeyman apprentice and learned the trade. He became an independent contractor, earned his contractor’s license, and worked 25 years as a building inspector for the City of Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety, retiring as a Principal Building Inspector in the San Fernando Valley. He gave generously of his time to help his friends, family, and church. He also contributed to his community through veterans groups and schools, speaking with younger generations to memorialize his experience in the war.
He is survived by his wife Shirley Govea (married 1987) and was preceded in death by his first wife Esther Govea (married 1951, died 1984). He is also survived by his children Susan King, Cynthia Smith, Yvonne Moon, Michael Carter, and Sarah Rockney; grandchildren Morgan, Billy, Chelsea, Matthew, Adam, Lauren, Luke, Gray, and Sophie; and great-grandchildren Blayde, Kyllian, Leah, Lillian, Billy, Sophia, Atiana, and Arcelia.
