Joe Paul Metcalf

1931 - 2013

Your chair is empty. Our hearts are broken open. We will miss you immensely as you have made our lives wonderful by your deep and unconditional love for us. We will miss you terribly but are glad you are now at peace.
 Joe was born to John Elvis and Maude Lenore (Adams) Metcalf. He spent the first 8 years of his life in Poteau, Oklahoma along with his seven siblings, W.C., James, Helen, Bud, Elizabeth, Jack and Arnie. After the death of his mother in 1939, he moved with his family to California where he lived for the remainder of his life.
 As a young man and into adulthood, he made quite a name for himself in sports. He played high school basketball and then later on enjoyed playing softball, tennis and rec basketball.
 Joe met and fell in love with Sharon Marlene Wagner. They married on December 29, 1951. Shortly after, Joe joined the Navy serving in the Korean War. After returning from the war, Joe worked with his father and mother-in-law, Ted and Edna Wagner, at T&E Market, a local landmark which many Lodians remember as a place to hang out, play pinball and buy candy.
 "Joey" and "Sherry", as they called one another, lived across the street from T&E and eventually had four children, Michael (born 1956), Scott (born 1958), Cory (born 1959) and Barry (born 1966).
 Over the years, Joe's home was open to all and all were welcomed with a generous and giving spirit. He was an amazing host and so often put others needs before his own.
In his retirement years, Joe enjoyed gardening, watching sports and "Judge" shows on television but most of all enjoyed being with his family and friends and seeing his grandchildren grow and thrive.
 Joe is survived by his wife, Sharon. His son, Michael & wife Brenda. His son Scott. His son Barry & wife Syndel. His daughter Cory & husband John. His grandchildren, Casey, Cameron, Molly, Chloe, Riley, Kendra, Jenise, Brandon, Vanessa and Tara. His brothers Jack and Arnie. His sister Helen. He also leaves behind many more loved ones including in-laws, nieces, nephews, many "adopted" family members and friends.
A most heartfelt and extra-special thank you to Scott Metcalf for his deep devotion and  loving care he so beautifully and selflessly gave to Dad in his final weeks, days, hours. It was a gift to us all but mostly to dad who trusted him and rested in his loving arms.
Thank you to everyone for your presence, support and kindness as we journeyed through this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to Hospice of San Joaquin. We thank them for their kindness, their generous support and guidance.
 "If there ever comes a day when we can't be together keep me in your heart, I'll stay there forever."
Winnie the Pooh
 We will have an open house celebration of life at the Metcalf home (12376 N. Lower Sacramento Road) on Saturday, November 9 from 11:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Please join us so we can support one another and share our memories of Joe's life. We will be putting together a memory book and would appreciate written memories and pictures for those who wish to bring them.