Joseph Howard Devanna

February 5, 1953 – March 14, 2011

Joseph H. DeVanna was born on February 5, 1953 in Toldeo, Ohio and passed away on March 14, 2011at the age of 58 years old in Merced, California, where he resided since moving here in 1974 from Orange County.

Joe loved spending time with family and friends and enjoyed the outdoors, including, golf, racing and camping. Joe was an avid Oakland Raider fan and a long term member of the Merced Elks Lodge #1240 B.P.O.E. for many years. Since moving to Merced, Joe’s profession was in automotive services for over 30 years.

Joe is survived by his wife of over 30 years, Mary DeVanna; sister, Trudy Rua and brother, Robbie DeVaul. He is also survived by his three daughters, Terri Gaddess, Tracy Gaddess (Mike) and Misty Alexander (Toby) and 6 grandchildren, Cheyanne, Ciara, Kaitlynn, Wyatt, Tristan and Megan.

Joe was preceded in death by his father and mother, William and Donna DeVanna; mother-in-law, Lourdes Bettencourt and brother-in-law, Dino Rua.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 2, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. at Calvary Assembly of God Church, 1021 R Street, Merced, CA. There will a gathering for family and friends following the services at Bishops on The Square, 460 West Main Street, Merced, CA.

Joe will be truly missed by all his family and closest friends.

Arrangements are under the direction of Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home.