1947
2017
Joe began working as a Funeral Director/Embalmer in Indiana in 1968. He was a graduate of the Kentucky School of Mortuary Science in Kentucky. He was a co-owner of Hale & Gerken Funeral Home in Montrose County, Colorado and Cortez 4-Corners Funeral Home in Cortez, Colorado. He was a member of the NFDA, the Colorado Funeral Directors Association, a member of Mt. Moriah Methodist Church and a member of the Montrose County West End Sheriff's Posse which helped on search and rescue missions.
Joe loved horses. He was known for the miniature horses that he raised for over 7 years, and was a musician that played many different instruments during his lifetime.
He is survived by his husband, Rodney Gerken of Sandborn, IN; his mother, Marjorie Hale of W Terre Haute, IN; sister, Debbie (Jeffrey) Kixmiller of W Terre Haute, IN; nephews, Craig (Samantha) Kixmiller and Jared (Lori) Kixmiller; niece, Emly (Jacob) Klosinski; brother-in-law and sister in-law, Jeff (Denise) Gerken; neices Hannah Gerken and Morgan Gerken; 3 great-nieces and 2 great-nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father, Leo Seward Hale. Funeral service and visitation will be private. Memorial contributions may be made to Heart to Heart Hospice of Terra Haute, IN. Online condolences can be sent to www.welchcornett.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
3 Entries
Sorry to learn of Joe's passing. In years gone by I brought caskets to the mortuary. Joe and Rodney were an asset to their community and it was my pleasure to do business with them in Naturita.
Richard Skola
September 26, 2018
My condolences. Made the thoughts at Hosea 13:14, where God promises to reverse deaths effects, bring a measure of comfort during this difficult time.
April 13, 2017
So sorry for your loss. The world lost a wonderful man. Joe always made me laugh even at some of his hardest times. He always made everyone laugh. He was loved by many and will be missed! Love you too, Rod. Thinking of the whole family. Prayers to you all.
Love,
MAK
Mary Kinnard
Friend
April 12, 2017
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