Joseph Edward Magana passed away on September 8, 2018 in San Antonio, Texas at the age of 99. He was born on March 24, 1919 in Arandas, Jalisco, Mexico to Cornelio and Natalia Magana. He was the oldest of 14 children. Joseph immigrated to Wisconsin in 1921. He enlisted in the Army in 1942 during World War II and saw action in Normandy, Ardennes, Northern France, Rhineland, and Central Europe. He later enlisted in the Air Force in 1947 and retired from there in 1963. He then went on to work as an Aircraft Inspector in the Civil Service at Kelly Airforce Base until his retirement in 1980. Joseph was an avid reader and an amazing gardener. His best days were when he was working and reading out in nature. Joseph was a life member of the VFW Post 7108 and the American Legion Post 347.
Joseph was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Frances Magana, sisters, Margot, Rose, Mary and Natalie; brothers, Royal, Patrick, and Anthony. He is survived by his daughter, Judith Elizabeth Crawford; son-in-law, Robert Crawford; grandsons, Michael A. Crawford and Zachary C. Crawford; sisters, Elaine, Margaret, Delores, and Theresa; brothers, John and Michael, numerous nieces and nephews; and special friend and neighbor, Elton Jackson.
The family wishes to thank the doctors and staff of BAMC for their care. They would also like to thank the staff at The Heights of Huebner and Kindred Hospice for their care and compassion. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to a charity very dear to Joseph’s heart, Elf Louise; 391 Industrial Park Dr; San Antonio, TX 78226; www.elflouise.org.
A Graveside Service will be held on Monday, September 17, 2018 at 9:00 am at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.
