Joe Dale Roe, 88, a life-long resident of Olathe, Kansas, passed away peacefully February 8, 2016 at Olathe Hospice House.
He was born on June 16, 1927 to Dick Jackson and Mabel Louise (O'Roark) Roe.
Joe grew up in Olathe, Kansas, graduated from Olathe High School in 1945 and enlisted in the United States Navy. He served 6 years and returned to Olathe in 1951. Joe married his high school sweetheart, Genevieve Geraldine (Jenny) Pretz , on February 16, 1952. They would have celebrated 64 years of marriage together this year.
Joe worked as a General Laborer (Local 1290) in the Heavy Construction Industry with various contractors, retiring in 1989. He took up golf in his 50's, and loved playing at Lakeside Golf Course in Olathe, with the same group of golf buddies.
Joe loved his United States of America and was proud of the service he and his brothers gave for their country. He was a proud member of American Legion Post 153 and served with the Honor Guard. He was proud to be a lifelong Democrat and a union man. He loved his hometown and most especially the Old Settlers Parade. Living on the parade route allowed him his own front row seat, on the deck. When asked once what his favorite holiday might be, Joe replied Old Settlers!!
Joe was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Richard, Kenneth, Ralph, and George; sisters Virginia, Doris and Mabel; and beloved son-in-law Steve Banholzer.
Joe is survived by his loving wife Jenny and his children Patricia (Ken) Chubb, Gardner, KS; Richard (Jo) Roe, Olathe, KS; Mary Banholzer, Olathe, KS; Kathleen Gordon, Overland Park, KS; and William (Linda) Roe, Salado, TX. He is also survived by 14 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild due in June.
He is also survived by sisters Mary Spencer, Olathe, KS; Barbara (Jim) Rodgers, Rupert, ID and Shirley (Dick) Adams, Sister Bay, WI.
In lieu of flowers, donations to American Legion Post 153 of Olathe, KS would be appreciated.
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