Joseph McConville Jr.

1932 - 2016

Joseph Patrick McConville Jr. passed away on Oct. 12, 2016, at home surrounded by his loving family in Wasilla, Alaska.
Joseph was born on Sept. 10, 1932, in East Orange, N.J., to Joseph Sr. and Margaret (Howard) McConville.
In 1952, searching for adventure, Joe enlisted in the United States Air Force. He served his country for almost 23 years at several military bases stateside and overseas. He was a helicopter mechanic, aircraft inspector and supply Sergeant. He especially enjoyed his time flying in B29's as a boom operator, refueling aircraft mid-air.
Joe married Marion, the love of his life, in 1954, and had three sons. In 1967, the Air Force asked Joe to relocate to Alaska: he eagerly looked forward to the new adventure. While serving on Elmendorf Air Force Base he maintained a second job, saving every penny to build his bride a home.
Joe and Marion settled in Eagle River, Alaska, in 1973, and retired from the Air Force in 1974. After accepting an opportunity with the United States Postal Service, working in several different positions, Joe preferred his role as a letter carrier. Joe really enjoyed the person-to-person contact while a mailman, serving his community. He was remembered for always having treats with him during his route for the furry friends he encountered.
After retiring from the United States Postal Service in 1996, Joe and Marion lived out their days in Eagle River. They became very active with St. Andrew Catholic Church, where they had many friends whom they loved and adored.
They loved spending time with their grandchildren both here and in Washington. They had many wonderful memories of traveling in their motorhome in Alaska and throughout the Lower-48. Joe lost Marion in 2011.
The family wrote: "Joe was a selfless man who was always in service of others. The world is a better place because he was here and Heaven just became a little brighter, for he is now there with his bride."
Joe is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Sr. and Margaret McConville; sister, Margaret (Peggy); sister-in-law, Grayce McConville; and his beloved wife, Marion McConville.
He is survived by his brother, William (Sandy); his son and daughter-in-law, Jeffrey Sr. and Cindy; son and daughter-in-law, Joseph III and Christina; and son and daughter-in-law Thomas and Lorrie. He is also survived by eight grandchildren and countless great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
A Memorial Mass in celebration of Joe will be held at 6 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 28, 2016, at St. Andrews Catholic Church in Eagle River. There will be a gathering one hour prior to the service and a reception following service as well. Father Arthur Roraff will be officiating.
Dual inurnment of Joseph's and Marion's ashes will be held at a later date at Fort Richardson National Cemetery with Full Military Honors for Joe.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity in memory of Joe and Marion.
Arrangements are with Janssen Funeral Homes.