William Joseph Chaudoin Sr.

Retired Lieutenant Colonel William Joseph "Joe" Chaudoin, Sr., PE-PLS, a man of faith and indomitable spirit, completed his earthly journey on October 28, 2025, at Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital West in Nashville, Tennessee. Born to the world on March 20, 1946, in the town of Coldwater, Michigan, Joe charted a course through life that would leave an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those he encountered. Joe's Christian faith was the cornerstone of his life, guiding his actions and kindling the light of grace within him. He embraced the Catholic faith at the age of 27, inspired by the virtuous example of his wife. His devotion to the church was evident in his contributions as Chief Engineer and Surveyor on the Building Committee for the new Saints Peter & Paul Church and his service as a trained and certified Catechist. Joe considered his conversion to Catholicism in 1973 to be his number one blessing in life. Joe's life story is a tapestry woven with threads of dedication, humble service, and love. His 56-year-long marriage to his beloved wife, Jennifer Chaudoin, was a testament to his steadfast commitment and adoration. Joe considered his marriage to Jennifer to be his number two blessing in life. Together, they nurtured a family that includes their sons William J. "Bill" (Brenda) Chaudoin, Jr. PE-PLS, Matt (Gwen) Chaudoin, and Nathaniel "Nate" (Amity) Chaudoin, DVM, all of Herndon, KY as well as their daughter, Angela J. (Larry) Chaudoin-Dearth of Cadiz, KY. His legacy is further carried on by his grandchildren: Bryan C. Chaudoin, Joey Chaudoin, Cody Dearth, Karenna Chaudoin, Preston Chaudoin, Jayne Dearth, Carolina Chaudoin, Laney Chaudoin, Ruthanna Chaudoin, and Sadie Chaudoin. Joe considered his children and grandchildren to be his number three blessing in his life. Joe is also survived by his sister, Colette Chaudoin (Bill) Park of Trophy Club, TX and several nieces and nephews. The love and wisdom Joe imparted to his family were matched only by his professional achievements and service to his country. His illustrious military career spanned 29 years, including a tour in Vietnam, where he earned a Bronze Star for meritorious service. His subsequent service in the National Guard and Army Reserve was recognized with a Meritorious Service Award. Joe's commitment to his nation was paralleled by his 35 years of Federal Civil Service as an Engineer and Safety Officer, contributing to significant projects such as the construction of a major Ohio River Lock & Dam. His managerial and leadership skills helped navigate Fort Campbell through the tragic events on and immediately after the September 11 attacks which left the country in moments of uncertainty. Joe's academic pursuits at Tri-State College culminated in a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, where he was honored in Who's Who in American Colleges & Universities. His professional expertise as a Licensed Professional Civil Engineer and Land Surveyor was not merely a career but a lifelong passion that he practiced with unwavering dedication. As a man of the land, Joe found solace in the simplicity of farming, raising beef cattle and calves for 35 years. His hands, skilled in carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, and mechanical repairs, were never idle. Joe was an avid aviator and radio operator in his youth and young adulthood. His leadership as the Cadet Commander of the local Civil Air Patrol and his involvement in Emergency Communications Amateur Radio Nets showcased his commitment to community and communication. Joe's love for sports and mentorship shone through in his roles as a football, baseball, and softball coach, where he guided not only his children and grandchildren but also countless young athletes. His dedication to youth development was further demonstrated in his time as a 4-H Camp Counselor, coach of Bud Hudson Football, and his involvement with the Boys & Girls Club. A member of the Knights of Columbus since 1981, Joe also found fellowship among his peers in the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign War. His life was a reflection of courage, handiness, and a faith-filled heart, virtues that will be forever cherished by those who knew him. Joe was known for his humility and his willingness to help anyone in need. As we bid farewell to Ret. Lt. Col William Joseph "Joe" Chaudoin, Sr., let us remember the words of the great poet Ralph Waldo Emerson: "To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children... to leave the world a bit better... to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded." Joe's life was indeed a resounding success, and his memory will be a beacon of inspiration for generations to come. A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, November 3, 2025 at Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church. Private family burial with military honors will take place Monday at the Chaudoin Family Cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday from 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. at Hughart, Beard & Giles Funeral Home with a Rosary to be said at 5:00 p.m. Hughart, Beard & Giles Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to the Saints Peter & Paul Catholic School Building Fund, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, or Tunnels to Towers.