Joseph Raymond Blatz

Joseph Raymond Blatz, age 67, of rural Chilton died on Wednesday January 2, 2008 at the Calumet Medical Center in Chilton. He was born on August 1, 1940 in St. Peter to Loretta (Birschbach) and the late Ray Blatz. Joe graduated from Stockbridge High School in 1959. He worked at Schley Block Company and later took over and farmed the homestead farm after his father passed away. He had a fond love of nature, enjoyed being in the woods and working the land. He always had his special eyes out looking for arrowheads as he could spot them from several feet away. He enjoyed all sports, especially the Packers. He is survived by his mother: Loretta; and his brothers and sisters: Rita Weber, Nina (Gerry) Bord both of Mt. Calvary, Ralph (Diane) Blatz and John (Betty) Blatz both of Chilton. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his father Ray in 1976 and a brother-in-law Leroy Weber. A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 12:00 noon on Saturday January 5, 2008 at St. Mary Catholic Church in Stockbridge with the Rev. Philip Dinh-Van-Thiep officiating. Burial will be in the Parish Cemetery. Friends may call at the Wieting Family Funeral Home (411 W. Main St.) in Chilton from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM on Friday January 4, 2008 and on Saturday at the church from 10:30 AM until 11:30 AM when the service will be held. A parish vigil service will be held at 7:00 PM on Friday at the funeral home. The family is eternally grateful for all of the wonderful care that he provided for their mother. He will be sadly missed by all that knew him.