Passed away suddenly at his residence at the age of 67 years. Joe was a native Gustine, CA, attended Salinas Schools, and has lived in San Benito County for the last 45 years. He was a member of Sacred Heart and St. Benedict Catholic Church Communities, the Cattlemen’s Association, and a former member of the Hollister Elk’s Lodge. Joseph was a Fabrication Supervisor for Wiebe Conveyance Systems and traveled the country installing can conveyers for major beverage companies. The last 13 years, Joe was the manager of Safety Storage in Hollister. “Joseph loved the Western Way—horses, ranches, brandings, and the friendships that they generated; his family was his world; taking his grandchildren fishing, watching them with their sports, and encouraging them in their schooling”, said his family. He was an avid supporter of the 4-H and FFA programs for youth as well as a supporter and participant at the San Benito Co. Horse Show and the Fair. “Joe will be remembered for his great sense of humor, his love of people, and his loyalty to family and friends” , said those who knew him well. Joe is survived by his wife Gloria; son and daughter-in-law Eric &Laura Souza; his grandchildren Dominic, Savanna, and Alora; sisters and brothers-in-law Lorraine and Clint McCoy, Mary Anne and Bob Janecek, and Kathy and Bill Cady; many nieces and nephews. Friends are invited to attend a Memorial Mass of Christian Burial on Wednesday, April 2, 2008 beginning at 10:00 A.M. at St. Benedict Catholic Church 1400 Fairview Rd., Hollister. Inurnment will be at Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum.
Reception will follow. Donations are preferred to the 4-H or the FFA c/o Grunnagle Ament Nelson Funeral Home 870 San Benito St., Hollister 95023 (831-637-3757) Send condolences to: www.grunnagle.com