1944
2018
Joseph Elmer McFeron
Nov. 1, 1944 - Dec. 18, 2018
Joseph Elmer McFeron, age 74, died peacefully Dec. 18, 2018 in hospice care at his home in Portland, in the company of family and his beloved dog, Oscar. Joe was born Nov. 1, 1944 in Portland, Oregon, to Emil Joseph McFeron and Dorothy Louise Hardin, the eldest of four children. Joe was an exceptionally bright, introspective child who loved music and writing poetry. He attended Portland Public Schools. An accomplished trumpet player, Joe played in the German Band at Grant High School for two years. After marrying at age 16, Joe found full time employment and attended night classes, graduating as valedictorian of his high school class in 1962.
A proud veteran, Joe joined the U.S. Army in 1968 and was stationed at Ft. Lewis, Washington. Early in his career, Joe worked a variety of jobs, including a long term position with Don Hall Laboratories, a vitamin manufacturer in Portland. In the late 1980s, Joe began working as a mail handler for the U.S. Postal Service. After demonstrating a strong mechanical aptitude, Joe was transferred to the maintenance department where he was quickly promoted. Joe served as a maintenance supervisor at the USPS Processing & Distribution Center in downtown Portland for several years until his retirement. As a supervisor, Joe was well loved for the dedication and steadfast support he offered to those he led.
Those closest to Joe know he was a brilliant man of firm convictions and unwavering loyalty. A voracious reader, writer and lifelong learner, Joe graduated summa cum laude (highest honors) with a Bachelor of Arts in American History in 2014. At the time of his death, he had nearly completed a Master of Arts degree, as well. Most importantly, Joe was a loving father, an adoring grandfather, a brother, a best friend, a rock in time of need and a confidante. Our hearts will never be the same without him.
Joe is survived by his children, Kim Hanset (Louis), Curtis McFeron (Brenda) and Rhonda McFeron (Brian). In 2016, Joe was preceded in death by his eldest son, Doug Knigge, a profound loss which broke his heart. Joe is also survived by his younger siblings, Ron McFeron (Diane), Darlene Robinson (Larry) and Debi McFeron; as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews; and his best friend, Becky.
On Friday, January 18, 2019, there will be a brief presentation of military funeral honors for Joe at the Willamette National Cemetery. Please meet at the cemetery office at 1:45 p.m. for a processional to the site of the presentation. Immediately following the military honors ceremony, there will be a Celebration of Life service and potluck beginning at 3 p.m., at the Portland Moose Lodge #291 located at 7414 S.E. 52nd Ave., Portland, OR 97206. Joe's family, friends and acquaintances are most welcome to attend both events.
Please sign the online guest book at www.oregonlive.com/obits
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by The Family.
Life can be a challenge, but Joe always made things possible. I was without a home during a divorce and Joe opened his for me. Non-judgemental, supporting and a great conversationalist. Joe, you were beyond great in all aspects. I will see you again someday my friend.
Richard Lovell
January 6, 2020
Joe,
You were a friend, co-worker, boss. You opened your home to me when I had need. Always there to listen, talk, support. I remember the lunches at Pal's Shanty. Always a smile, always a great man. See ya again in the future.
Rich
January 15, 2019
Richard Lovell
January 15, 2019
Judith Dykman
January 14, 2019
We will miss you Joe. You were a great Boss and friend.
Jim Alderson
January 14, 2019
I am Brian's mother I only met Joe onfacebook following my granddaughter Lexie Raylynn Dykman he was on my wave link I was born nov 20 1944 I feel for his daughter Rhonda my heart is with her
Gone too soon may Joe rest inpeace
Judith Ann Dykman
January 13, 2019
Going to miss working with and for you Joe.
Robert Montgomery
January 13, 2019
My Heart goes out to Your Family! I will Absolutely Miss Your Talks and Friendship, You were an inspiration to us all here at the Moose Lodge!
Debbie Barrett
January 13, 2019
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