Joseph Francis Feil

Joseph Francis Feil passed away on June 17, 2016 at the age of 93 and spent his entire life setting an example for his children and grandchildren. He was, and always will be, a true hero to those that had the privilege to know him.

Joseph was born on February 3, 1923 to John Joseph (Joe) and Theresa Feil in the house that Joe built in Grandview, WA. Joseph graduated Grandview High School in 1941, where he helped lead the Greyhounds to three consecutive championships in Football. Although he was of small frame, he possessed one of the toughest spirits and a shear strength that was not to be reckoned with.

Joseph proudly served in the Army Air Corps from 1943 to 1945 in New Guinea, the Philippines, Guam, and Okinawa and was preparing for the invasion of Japan when word came of their surrender. After being discharged from the service in February 1946, Joseph returned to his mother's birthplace on her family farm in Rosalia, WA and became a wheat farmer.

Joseph married Lura Jane (Jane) Feil, who he had known since grade school, on May 7, 1949 and Joseph, being the man that he was, went to work for the Washington State Highway Department in Spokane, as well as continuing to work on the farm to support his family. It is on the farm in Rosalia, where their three children were born and where they spent the next 13 years until moving to Spokane in 1962.

During the 60s and 70s, Joseph continued to expand his knowledge and received numerous certifications from Spokane Community College in Surveying and Engineering. After 25 years of service, Joseph retired from the State Highway Department in July, 1983. After retirement, Joseph remained active in Hunters' Education, sharing his knowledge and teaching the young the importance of safety and respect for firearms.

Joseph is preceded in death by his wife Jane of 63 years, his parents and six siblings, and his grandson, Michael. He is survived by his three children, Joseph Albert (Fran) Feil , Jonmichael (Kathy) Feil, Jeanne Marie (Roy) Clifford, his granddaughter Melissa (Casey) McGourin, two great grandchildren, Jacob and Benjamin, and numerous very special nieces and nephews. Joseph was also blessed with five bonus grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

Arrangements under the direction of Ball & Dodd Funeral Home, Spokane, WA.