Joe F. Vasquez

Jose Emeterio Vasquez age 94, peacefully passed away September 19, 2021, surrounded by family who he loved and who loved him. Joe was born January 21, 1927, in San Antonio, Texas to Petra Fuentes and Refugio Vasquez, both of Mexico. He was the fourth oldest of 11 children.

Joe was a US Navy veteran of World War II and the Korean War initially enlisting on August 11, 1943 (he was 16, he lied about his age so that he could serve his country) having served over 30 years and was Honorably Discharged from the Naval Reserves on February 12, 1983.

As a young sailor, Joe met his future wife, Celia Ovalle, through his sister who happened to be friends. Long story short, Joe and Celia married on June 20, 1947, and were married for 47 years.

Celia was Joe’s spiritual support, and greatest advocate throughout his life. Their marriage and family were built on strong values, selfless devotion, and the Christian faith.

Joe was preceded in death by his devoted wife Celia, his sons Joseph Edward and Mark Anthony and his parents.

He is survived by his five children; Georgina Cardenas (Carlos); Hilda Campos (Arturo); Rev. Sylvia Vasquez; Gerardo Vasquez (Rosa); and Alex Vasquez (Cynthia); grandchildren, Denise Ynostrosa, Eric Cardenas, Jennifer Ponce (Joseph), Omar Cardenas (Leticia),Tomas Vasquez (Lisa),Sergio Vasquez (Lisa), Laura Nelson (Rob), Kimberly Galloway (Christopher), Michelle Strawser (Trent), Jennifer Gonzales; Great-grandchildren, Steven Noble (Rachel), Anthony Morin, Sebastian Sepulveda, Josue Marmolejo, Sarynthia Marmolejo, Zoie Morin, Matthew Vasquez, Anyssa Ponce, Antonio Guerrero, Sophia Cardenas, Noah Cardenas, David Paulino, Madelyn Ponce, Eddie Nelson, Lily Musara, Benjamin Cardenas, Loralie Nelson, Xander Vasquez, Skylar Nelson; great-great grandchildren, Gabriella Noble and Maroisa Salinas; three siblings, David Vasquez (Concepcion), Dolores Hernandez and Ignacio Vasquez; and numerous nephews and nieces.

Joe was a decorated war veteran that served as a Gunners Mate on the mine sweeper USS YMS 184 (WWII) and LST 973 (Korean War). He continued to serve in the US Naval Reserve as an Electrician’s Mate in San Antonio where he retired after 30 years. He worked Civil Service at Kelly AFB for 29 years after which he retired. Joe continued working as an usher for the Spurs games which he thoroughly enjoyed.

Joe was an avid golfer who had captured that elusive “Hole in One” twice in his lifetime. Joe and his brothers formed the Panchito’s Breakfast Club where they met every Friday to talk about family, current events, and politics. He also enjoyed crossword puzzles, and spending time with his family.

Joe will be remembered for his faithfulness to the Lord, generous caring and devotion to his family. He was always a joyous man and life of the party!

The family will receive friends from 6 pm to 7 pm on Wednesday, September 29th, 2021, at Porter Loring Mortuary on McCullough with a service beginning at 7pm. Funeral service Sept. 30th 10:00 a.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 1018 E. Grayson St. Interment will follow at San Fernando Cemetery #2, with Navy honors rendered at 12:15. A reception will be held at St. Paul’s immediately following burial ceremony.

The family would like to thank his caregivers from The June for their love and support of Joe.