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Joseph Kerr Obituary

Joseph Kerr, 83, died unexpectedly January 24, 2024 at his home in Washington, DC. A career intelligence officer with the US Army, Joe served in Korea, Vietnam and Germany, including a divided Berlin at USMLM in the Soviet-occupied sector of E. Germany. Post-active duty, Joe worked another 30 years in arms control with both DIA and CIA. He was recognized for his superior service with numerous medals and awards. Outside of work Joe loved travel, art, music and time with family and friends. He is survived by his wife, Catherine Cleary; his four children: Amy Kerr Thome (Stephen) of Cleveland, OH, Megan Kerr (Thomas Powers) of Needham, MA, Joseph Kerr, Jr. (Anna Fuhrman) of Washington, DC, and Steven Kerr (Hannah) of Brookeville, MD; as well as nine beloved grandchildren. Joe was preceded in death by his first wife, Andrea (d. 2018). A celebration of life is planned for June 22 at St. Mark's Church on Capitol Hill. He will be buried in Arlington National Cemetery.

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Published by The Washington Post on Apr. 7, 2024.

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4 Entries

Bonnie S Kerr

June 1, 2025

My Joseph H. Kerr, Lt. Col USAF passed Nov. 2011. Interesting they both served Korea, Vietnam and many tours in Germany. My Joe is buried at Bushnell National Cemetery in Florida. I miss him as much today as I did the day he passed. I live in Melbourne, Fla. God bless you and your family. Bonnie Kerr

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Christa Watters

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Jud Rose

June 11, 2024

Joe was my boss at DIA. He was a great boss, and a better person and friend. I always tried to emulate his leadership style as my career progressed. He will be fondly remembered by the many of us, whose lives he touched.

Mac McPeak, LTC, US Army (Ret)

June 5, 2024

I knew Joe from the arms control business assignments in DIA and JCS. We worked together over the span of several years and I knew him to be a splendid officer and a gem of a man. We hosted him in our quarters in Vienna many times and always enjoyed his company. He was truly a special person and will be fondly remembered.

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