JOSEPH WEIRICK

Joseph Benson Weirick was born in Fresno, CA, on September 8, 1938, and peacefully passed away on his ranch on Wednesday, February 8, 2017 at the age of 78. Throughout his life, he devoted himself to family, friends, business, and his community. No matter if you knew Joe from the slopes of China Peak, hunting in the Pacific flyway, boating on Shaver Lake, riding horseback along the Central Coast, or from his many business and philanthropic endeavors in the Central Valley, you were always greeted with the warmth, kindness, and good nature that were the hallmarks of his life. Joe was always quick with a warm smile and an engaging story. A Fresno High School graduate, he attended Fresno State College earning a business degree in 1960. He began his career in banking at Midland Savings and Loan, working alongside his father who was the founder and president. In 1964, Joe and his father purchased China Peak Ski Resort near Huntington Lake where he managed and operated the resort for nearly 15 years. An outdoor enthusiast, Joe enjoyed all aspects of operating the ski resort, from managing the retail shop, food service, rentals, and lift ticket sales, to the construction and maintenance of the facility. Joe's love for China Peak heightened when he met Joanne Marie (Rossi) Weirick, who worked at the resort. It was love at first sight, they married and proudly raised their family enjoying nearly 50 years together, until Joanne's passing in 2015. During his time at China Peak, Joe was able to significantly grow the resort, develop a ski school with Joanne working as one of the instructors, and recruit prominent ski coaches who helped develop the racing program into what it is today, which touts world renowned athletes who have gone on to ski on World Cup and Olympic ski teams. In 1978, Joe and Joanne sold China Peak which allowed him to focus more on his family and return to agriculture, his first love. They became resident owners of the Meadow Lakes Apple Company, in the mountains east of Fresno, a retail orchard that produced multiple varieties of apples, as well as the production of infused vinegars and dressings which were sold to boutique retailers. A family man first, Joe and Joanne did everything together. They were immensely proud of their son, James, grandchildren Colleen and Austin, and loved their extended family. Throughout his life, Joe shared his time and expertise with many organizations and nonprofits with continued involvement as trustee for the Central Sierra Historical Society Museum, member of California Air National Guard, the Bald Mountain Volunteer Fire Department, the Britto Land Co., and Rancheros Visitadores. He also was a founding board of director for Central Valley Community Bank and proudly served for over 37 years as an advocate for small businesses and the residents of the Central Sierras. Joe was preceded in death by Joanne, his loving wife of 49 years. He is survived by his son, Lt. Col. James W. Weirick, United States Marine Corps (Retired); his sister, Beanie Irola; as well as numerous extended family and friends. Remembrances may be made to S.P.C.A., 103 S. Hughes Ave., Fresno, CA 93706; or American Cancer Society, 2222 W. Shaw Ave., Suite 201, Fresno, CA 93711.