Joseph R. Semler Jr.

Joseph R. SEMLER, Jr. Joseph R. Semler, Jr. age 70, a resident of Copalis Beach, Washington, died at his home on October 21, 2005. Joe lived the American way exemplified by his devotion to family, love of country and commitment to God. Joe was born and raised on the family wheat farm, October 26, 1934 near Colton, Washington. He graduated from Colton High School in 1952 and attended Washington State University. While in school, he decided to enlist in the US Army in 1955 to meet his obligation to his country. Joe had many memories of his Army service and tour in Europe which led to his enjoyment of Vespas and Fiats in later life. Joe was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army in 1962. Joe graduated from Washington State University in 1959 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Economics. He joined Seattle-First National Bank in 1960 where he held a number of management positions and retired in 1982 as Senior Vice President. His love of the land and the great outdoors never left him. While working as a banker, he concurrently owned several small farms. After his retirement he realized his life long dream as a full-time farmer and settled in Coulee City, Washington where he owns and operates a wheat ranch. Joe was the guiding post and teacher to his family, he took immense care to share his knowledge and opinions, and instilled his conservative values to his family and all he touched. He was not shy with his words and beliefs, and had a no-holds approach to life. Joe had a fun-filled sense of humor, a twinkle in his eye, a sharp intellect and wit, and readily called it like it was. His sly smile and contagious laugh always let you know something else was coming along. Joe lived life on his own terms, though he had a sensitive nature that he held close, and an abiding spiritual connection to his faith and our Lord. He wrote volumes and spoke openly in defense of people's rights and responsibilities - a topic that was very serious to him. He read voraciously, particularly biography and history. Joe loved his dogs, books, birding, gardening, photography, geopolitics, and investing, and felt at peace from the beckoning sound of the surf from his oceanside home. Joe had a very strong will to live life in this world. He was a survivor and put up a valiant fight despite serious health challenges. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Sr. and Minnie Merkie Semler. He is survived by his siblings Lorraine Joslin, Eileen Ankerson, Ora Mae Brigidi (Bart), Cletus Semler (Darlene), and Edy Stevens (Al). Joe loved his family as a passionate guiding patriarch. He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Anne, with whom he shared a deep, lifetime friendship and his seven children, Sally Semler (Rob Matchett), Sandra Heaslett (Kevin), Joseph R. Semler, lll (Barbara), Lynn Semler (John Chelminiak), Stephen Semler (Diane), Suzanne Silverstein (Jim), and Mary Buffett (Doug). He is also survived by twelve loving grandchildren. We are all blessed to have had Dad as our Shepherd and light. A Rosary and Memorial Service in tribute to Mr. Semler was held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, October 28, 2005 at St. Jerome's Catholic Church, 15 Patrick Way, Ocean Shores, Washington. Arrangements by Coleman Mortuary in Hoquiam.