Cletus Joseph Goetz Jr.

Cletus "Joe" Joseph Goetz, Jr., 90, of Willis went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, March 10, 2026.

Joe was born on October 13, 1935, in Rome Kentucky to Cletus Goetz and Louise Purcell. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, working as a mechanic on B-52 bomber hydraulics. Joe was proud of his service and often wore his Air Force hat so the world could see his pride in being an American who served his country.

After his military service, Joe worked as a carpenter and continued working well into his 80s along with his sons. He took great pride in his work, and through his years as a handyman he met many customers who quickly became friends. Joe never met a stranger, and anyone he encountered was treated like a friend from that moment on.

Joe loved his GOD and his family deeply and lived his life with strong faith and devotion. He was a man of conviction and, yes, a little stubborn at times – but that strength was part of what made him who he was.

Joe considered himself a fisherman at heart. Any chance he had, he could be found fishing and enjoying the outdoors. He was also known for a unique talent – he was the only man many knew who could recite the ABCs backwards.

Joe is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Dorothy; his sons, Daryl and wife Melissa, Steve and wife Peggy, and his daughter, Laura and husband Tim. He also leaves behind seven grandchildren, Miranda and husband Robert, Jacob, Scott and wife Andi, Brian and wife Courtney, Levi and wife Christa, Luke and Sensi. Joe was blessed with three great- grandchildren, Gianna, GiaCobbe and Piper.

He is also survived by two sisters, Darlene and husband Mickey, and Vannah, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents Cletus Goetz, Sandy and wife Louise Purcell Sandige, his father- and mother- in- law, Frank and Eleanor Brooker; his brothers Bill Goetz, Richard Goetz and Mike Sandidge.

Pallbearers will be Jacob Butler, Scott Goetz, Brian Goetz, Levi Haarmeyer, Luke Haarmeyer, GiaCobbe Butler

Honorary Pallbearers will be Ron Phillips, Bill Scaglione and Kenneth Noack.

Joe will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, his love of the outdoors, his pride and serving his country, and the many friendships he formed throughout his life. He will be missed deeply.