Joseph A. Werner, "Gramps", 89, of West Bend, passed away Thursday, June 19, 2014.
He was born on January 17, 1925 in Logansport, IN to the late Joseph and Elizabeth (nee Beall) Werner. Joe served in the U.S. Marine Corps during WWII including the landing on Iwo Jima. He also served in the U.S. Air Force stateside during the Korean war. In 1950 he graduated from Southern Methodist University with a degree in business administration. He was united in marriage to Delores "Dolly" Kempf on November 20, 1955 in Dallas, TX. Dolly passed away November 22, 2000.
Joseph was first employed with Fuller Brush after graduating from SMU. He then joined Amity Leather as a salesman and then regional sales manager in Dallas, Texas. In 1965 he was transferred to West Bend where he served as National Sales manager and Vice President in charge of sales for Amity Leather until retiring in 1987. After retirement, Joe spent his time working with Chris and his family at Indian Summer Honey Farm.
He is survived by three children, Chris (Becky) Werner of Germantown, Greg (Becky Jean) Werner of West Bend, and Kelly Christine Werner of Milwaukee; nine grandchildren, Sarah (Peter) Ellis of Germantown, Zachary (India) Werner of Webster, FL, Caleb (fiancAC.e Jennifer Waltho) Werner of Germantown, Benjamin Werner of Germantown, Abigail Werner of Germantown, Esther Werner of Germantown, Micah Werner of Germantown, Calvin "CJ" Werner of West Bend, and Jacob Werner of West Bend; two great-grandchildren, Hudson Ellis and Sakshi Mae Werner; many other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, and eight siblings.
A memorial service in remembrance of Joseph will be held on Thursday, June 26 at 7:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church, 2300 S. Main St., West Bend. Visitation will be at the church on Thursday from 6:00 p.m. until the time of service.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to contribute in memory of Joseph are asked to send donations to Gospel Light Baptist Mission (the mission board of his grandchildren Zachary and India Werner). Contributions may be sent to Gospel Light Baptist Mission India, 17140 Hwy 27, Clermont, FL 34715.