Joseph Mendez

Barbara Mendez for 58 years who passed in 2020. Loving father of Michelle Mendez (Jerry Grimm), Rita (Bradley) LaFaive, Anita (Aaron) Banach and Nicole Mendez. Proud grandfather of Danielle Burger, Mitchell LaFaive, Derek LaFaive (Ashley), Brendan Banach (Courtney), Nathan Banach, Cassidy Banach, Kevin Burger and Jason Burger and great-grandfather to Cameron Banach. Brother of Franck Mendez. Treasured uncle of Denise (Bob) Nowlen, Cheryl (Andy) Szymanski and Kevin (Melissa) Yates.

Joe was born to Manuel and Soledad Mendez and raised in Detroit Michigan. He earned several heating and cooling certifications and worked his way to becoming Vice President of Operations at Redico. While with Redico, he was instrumental in the construction of the Palace of Auburn Hills. While he enjoyed his work, he preferred time with family and friends and most importantly the times he was able to spend on the water. An avid sailor, he was a member of the Sunfish Sailboat Club and also raced on Lake St. Clair for years. He owned a cabin up north, and spent many summers on both Lake Michigan and Torch Lake.

Always quick to help neighbors trouble-shoot and fix any home or car issue, he was a devoted caretaker to those he loved and were in need. A life-long learner, he lived an active lifestyle often saying “a body in motion, stays in motion.” Joe loved to practice Tai Chi, bike ride, swim, hike and travel. Most recently taking a trip to Spain and visiting the birth places of both of his parents and meeting cousins.

Visitation will be held on February 16th from 1 to 6 p.m. at Elton Black and Son Funeral Home, with

a memory and prayer service at 4:30 p.m. Funeral service will be held on Monday, February 17th at 11 am.