Joseph Shoen

Joseph Phillip Shoen VIRGINIA BEACH - Joseph Phillip Shoen, 72, passed into eternal life Sept. 10, 2009. Joe was the youngest of six children born to William Earl Shoen and Marie Adora Shoen (Williams) on April 28, 1937, in Lowell, Mass. Joe's memory will be cherished by his six surviving children, Theresa Fish (husband Morris), Stephanie Jacobs (husband Dave), Joe Shoen (wife Cheryl), Billy Shoen (wife Carol), Darren Shoen (wife Beth) and Dani Brady (husband Josh). He is also survived by 13 grandchildren; his brother, Jack Shoen; his sister, Patricia Tanner; his niece, Ladawn Tanner; and former wife, Sue Shoen. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Roger, Betty and Dolly. Joe grew up, and later raised his family, in San Diego. He graduated from Kearny High School, in 1955, attended the University of San Diego and honorably served four years in the United States Navy. Joe excelled in sports, was an avid sports fan, and enjoyed playing golf. He worked in various sales jobs and owned and operated his own pest control company. In 1991, Joe moved to Virginia Beach to live near his sons. He devoted the remainder of his life and sobriety to mentoring and sponsoring anyone who wanted to live a sober life. Joe had a tremendous impact on many people through AA who were helped and inspired by his uncensored guidance, support and commitment to helping them find sobriety through Jesus Christ. Memorial service will be held at Thalia United Methodist Church in Virginia Beach Saturday, Sept. 26, at 5 p.m. Family and friends are welcome to attend the service and a reception immediately following. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations be made to the American Heart Association. Altmeyer Funeral Home is handling arrangements. To share condolences with the family, please visit www.altmeyer.com.