Joseph T.D. Vasquez

Joseph Vasquez, of St. Louis, MO, passed away October 20, 2012, at the age of 94. He was born in Terre Haute, IN, on July 28, 1918, The son of Benjamin and Aurora (Martinez) Vasquez. He and Olga Parise were married on February 7, 1948.

Loving husband, for 64 years, to Olga Parise Vasquez; dear father of Michael (Susan) Vasquez, Karen (Joe) Heitkamp, Gia (Steve) Ferris; beloved grandfather of Stephanie Vasquez Lowery, Ted Vasquez, Adam Gillis, Joseph Ferris, Ben Vasquez, and Bryan Ferris; dearest great grandfather of Peyton and Parker Lowery, Logan Gillis, and Kai and Liliana Vasquez.

Mr. Vasquez was a United States Army veteran of WWII. Proudly joining the Army at the age of 23. His most feared time was his time on the front lines; saddest time was when a wounded soldier died in his arms, most rewarding time being appointed to infantry Officer Candidate School and being comissioned as a Second Lieutenant and being thrilled with his promotion to First Lieutenant. He was promoted to Captain of the 33rd Regement, 28th Infantry division and later Company Commander on March 5, 1947. Mr. Vasquez was a highly decorated veteran recieving 2 Bronze Stars and a Purple Heart.

His lifetime enjoyment of soccer led him to become a coach for S.E.C.O, and later Bush Gardens. Mr. Vasquez was an inspriation to each and every player on his select team. His unique coaching style allowed these young men to demonstrate their best talent on and off the field. The respect and honor they showed for him then and now is beyond words. Mr vasquez is known to have been the best coach the players have ever had.

Funeral services will be 9:30 A.M. Wednesday, October 24, at Hoffmeister South County Chapel, 1515 Lemay Ferry Rd., where the family will receive friends Tuesday from 4-8 PM. Interment, with full military honors in, National Cemetery, Jefferson Barracks, MO. The family suggests memorial contributions in memory of Mr. Vasquez to a charity of choice.