Joseph M. Cano Sr.

MSgt. Joseph (Joe) M. Cano Sr., USAF (Ret), of Oscoda, passed away peacefully on Jan. 17, 2025, at the age of 88.
Joe was born to the late Herman and Eleanor Cano on Dec. 17, 1936 in Norwalk, Conn. He spent his childhood years in Norwalk delivering newspapers on his bike and working at a teddy bear factory.
At the age of 16, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force (illegally, by forging his mother's signature). On March 8, 1969, Joe married Katherine in Port Huron. They were married 43 years. The couple was stationed in England as well as several states until his retirement in 1980, to their final residence in Oscoda.
He proudly served our Country in the USAF for 27 years, reaching the rank of Master Sargent. He was stationed at Vietnam, England, Spain, Thailand and Korea. He served two tours in Vietnam and received many awards including the USAF Commendation Medal for Meritorious Service as a weapons technician in Vietnam and the The Meritorious Service Medal while serving as Weapons Flight Chief at Langley Air Force Base, Va.
After retirement, Joe ran the Automotive Hobby Shop on Wurtsmith Air Force Base for many years. He was also integral in establishing car clubs and car shows in the Oscoda area for many years. Joe was an antique and classic car enthusiast. He was known by many as "Mustang Joe." It was a familiar site to see Joe sitting outside in the driveway, cocktail in hand, and his cars on full display after a good washing in the driveway.
Joe also loved watching sports, especially "his Yankees" play baseball. During his time overseas, he played on the Air Force Baseball team.
Joe was a member of the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars and Fraternal Order of Eagles Club and attended Oscoda Baptist Church. He served in the Color Guard representing our Country in parades, military events and funerals. Joe also served a few terms as Chaplain for the VFW, and presided with the Color Guard in parades and military funerals. Back in the day if there was a parade Joe and his red 1966 Mustang were in it.
He is survived by his children, Joseph (Sherri) Cano Jr. of East Tawas, MI; James (Jo) Cano of Tawas City, Jeffrey Cano, of Tawas City, and Kimberly Glidden, of Richland; as well as many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and his special friend, Evelyn Bancroft, who cared and loved him in his last years.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Eleanor Cano; beloved wife, Katherine Cano; sisters, Delores Dattellic and Sharon Hickey; brother, Wayne Cano; son, John Cano; and son-in-law, Corbin Glidden.
Per Joe's wishes, cremation will take place and a private service for the family will be scheduled for a later date. You may offer condolences at www.bureshfuneralhomes.com.