Josef G Kamerling

Josef G Kamerling, age 79, of Houston, Texas, was the son of Max and Ruth Kamerling. He was married to Cindy Douglass for 42 years. They met at a local square dancing class and were married in April 1980. His is survived by daughter Rebecca Kamerling Cheskes, brother David (Sharon) Kamerling, sister Toby (Doug) Grimm and brother-in-law Aaron (Loraine) Hayes. Josef is also survived by his step-sons James (Teresa) Douglass and Joe Douglass and was known as “Grandpa Joe” to his grandchildren Dalia, Ilan, Angela, Duce, Michael and Robert.

Josef “Joey” was born in El Paso, TX where his father was stationed during WWII. The family moved to Houston when Joey was 5 years old. Being the oldest child, he took responsibility very seriously. This character trait was something that he demonstrated throughout his life, whether with family, business or simply hobbies.

He graduated from the University of Houston in 1966 with a degree in accounting. He founded his accounting firm in 1974 and welcomed wife Cindy into the firm in 1989, working side by side for 33 years. Josef prided himself on his personal relationships with clients and would always go the extra mile to help them.

In addition to his business, Josef had many hobbies over the years, including needlepointing, sewing, woodworking and fishing. He loved participating in Boy Scouts in his youth, attaining Eagle Scout rank in 1960. A highlight was attending the 1964 Boy Scout Jamboree in Valley Forge, PA. He also had a keen interest in learning Yiddish during the last few years and participated in the Houston Yiddish Vinkel. Josef also relished reading the daily email from Jewish Humor Central and often sent the most interesting ones to family members and friends. One of his fondest activities was driving a wagon with the Valley Lodge Trail Ride Association leading up to the Houston Livestock and Rodeo. He made many friends with these activities and was known for being wise, knowledgeable, and generous to a fault. He will be greatly missed by family and friends.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 21 at 2pm at First Unitarian Universalist Church, 5200 Fannin St., Houston, TX 77004. Reception to follow.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.levyfuneraldirectors.com for the Kamerling family.