On January 8th 2014, Joseph Meitz returned home to the Lord at the age of 90.
Joe was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on June 5th, 1923, to Charles and Katherine Meitz. While in high school, he met the love of his life, Audrey, and the two were married in 1946, remaining inseparable for over 67 years. At the age of 19 he enlisted in the U.S Army Air Corps, serving for three years with the 379 th bomb group, 527 th squadron stationed in Kimbolton, England. As a radio operator and gunner on the Carol-Dawn, a B-17 flying fortress, he flew 32 missions and was awarded the distinguished flying cross for his service.
After leaving the military, he spent 35 years with General Motors, transferring from Milwaukee to Santa Barbara in 1972 with Delco Electronics, from which he retired as chief draftsman in 1983. In retirement, Joe was highly active in community organizations such the Elks Lodge, Knights of Columbus, and St. Raphael’s Parish. He took pride in delivering Christmas dinners to families in need, building toys for children, and volunteering for the Special Olympics, which he ran for six years.
In addition to his work in the community, Joe enjoyed traveling, spending t ime with family, and watching his beloved Green Bay Packers play football. Joe is survived by his wife Audrey; his eight children: Robert, Phillip, James, Mary Jo, William, Barbara, Jeanne and David; his 16 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild.
A Memorial Service for Joe will be held at St. Raphael’s Church on Monday, January 13th at 10 a.m. Please visit www.wrhsb.com to leave an online message or condolence.
Arrangements by Welch-Ryce-Haider Funeral Chapels
