Joseph T. Mesch

Joseph Mesch Obituary

April 11, 2009

Joseph T. Mesch, 66, of Sierra Vista, Ariz., passed away peacefully with his family by his side Saturday in Tuscon, Ariz.

Born in New Boston, Oct. 8, 1942, he was a son of the late John and Leocadia Mreese Mesch.

He was an incredibly devoted father who loved his family above all. He was unconditionally supportive of his three daughters and was more than a husband to his wife, Susan. He was her best friend.

He faithfully served his country for more than 25 years in the Army. As a decorated Vietnam veteran, he was awarded numerous medals and a Combat Infantryman Badge for his service and bravery. He retired at Fort Huachuca in 1994.

He led an incredibly active life and did more in his 66 years than most could do in 100. He was an avid swimmer, runner, biker, environmentalist, community activist and world traveler.

Surviving, in addition to his wife, Susan, are three daughters, Elisa, Kara and Anya; two cats, Squeakers and Angel; his granddog, Bailey; the two backyard feral cats; two brothers, Robert and John; three sisters, Lee, wife of Nick Spock, Joan, wife of Frank Trakes, and Mary, wife of Joe Varese; and nieces and nephews.

Joseph's life will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Friday at St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic Church, 800 N. Taylor Drive, Sierra Vista, Ariz., with the Rev. Gregory Adolf as the celebrant. Joe believed in living life to its fullest. In lieu of donations, please honor his wonderful life by doing something for the Sierra Vista community, attend a Buena Fine Arts production or sporting event, host an international exchange student, run in a local 10K, plant an indigenous tree or be creative in his memory. Hatfield Funeral Home, Sierra Vista, Ariz., is in charge of arrangements.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Republican & Herald from Apr. 15 to Apr. 16, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Mesch

10 Entries

Mickiie Davis

May 5, 2009

I knew Joe and Susan through others. They would not remember me but in my brief encounter, I found a friendly, kind brother soldier who I am sure would have made a lifetime friend. Final guard duty brother. Brother in arms.

Lynn Ann and Jack Dimmick

April 16, 2009

Aunt Sue, Elisa, Kara, and Anya,
Uncle Joe was such a wonderful person. He touched eached of our lives in such a special way. He was so good with our children (especially Michael and Johh).
Please know that we are always here for you. You are in all of our thoughts and prayers. May our Blessed Mother watch over you and guide you each and everyday. We love you.

Uncle Joe,
Thank you for being such a wonderful Uncle. You have given us so much in our lives. You really had an impact on Michael. He really seemed to communicate well with you. I have many fond memories of growing up w/ you that I share with all my children. Please continue to help us and intercede for us. We Love You!!
Love Always,
Lynn Ann, Jack, Michael, Katherine, John Matthew

Bob Fisher

April 16, 2009

To know Joe was to be in awe of the tremendous enthusiasm that he gave forth. We were classmates at Pottsville Campus of Penn State and worked together in several activities, including ROTC and student government. What a great guy! So pleased (but not at all surprised) to read that he continued on the pathways of bravery and service to his fellow human beings. My sincere sympathies to his family.

Kathy (Shaner) Sherman

April 16, 2009

I send my condolences to the Mesch family. I graduated from IHHS and fondly remember Joe as our class president. I especially remember his warm personality and always had the feeling he really cared about everyone. God bless all of you.

Barbara (Merook) Markiewicz

April 15, 2009

My sympathy to the Mesch family. I didn't know Joe but I did know his siblings since I grew up in New Boston. He lived a full life although, it ended too quickly. So sorry.

Karl Loeper

April 15, 2009

I, too, knew Joe through the 4 yrs. in Immaculate Heart H.S. Although I never knew him well, I do remember his dynamic personality, his positive outlook in life as well as being a funny guy. You will be remembered in my prayers and rest in peace, Joe.

Joseph Chiaretti

April 15, 2009

I was graduated from IHHS with Joe in 1960. To be around him was special. What a wonderful personality. When I read of his passing this morning, I remembered all the swell times we had in school and at our reunions. There is little one can say to ease the pain of his loved ones. It can only help to know others care. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Oscar Haertsch

April 15, 2009

Joe and I spent four years together as part of the first class at Immaculate Heart High School to graduate after completing our entire HS education at IHHS. We were not in the same home-room the first year but it did not take long to recognize him as a good guy whom you would like to be around. The respect and stature in which he was held continued to grow, as evidenced by our choosing him as our senior year class president. After all this time, there is not a single moment of anything but great memories of Joe. Rest in peace.

Christine Trakes

April 15, 2009

Aunt Sue, Elisa, Kara and Anya,

I loved Uncle Joe so much! I found myself to have been blessed by his life as my uncle and godfather. He loved all of you so much. In addition to being a wonderful husband and father to you all; he was an excellent uncle to all of us. Even Lynn Ann’s children can attest to that one! He was warm hearted and lived life to the fullest!

He truly lived a beautiful life where he enjoyed every moment. The small details mattered to him especially when it came to people. His disposition was always a happy spirited one, which will remain with me always!

Although presently distance keeps us apart you know I am phone call a way. I love you all so much!

Uncle Joe, your loving spirit will remain with us and thank you for the gift of your life as my uncle and godfather. My life has been richly blessed with much love and happiness because of you!