Joseph Allan Podawiltz, Sr

Joseph Allen Podawiltz, Sr., age 95, passed away August 29, 2017 in Mesquite, NV.  He was born on August 22, 1922 in Sauk Rapids,  MN to Allan J. and Anne (Roane) Podawiltz.  He married Rosemary Philippi on January 27, 1945. Their children are Joseph Allen Jr. (Betty Tolfa), James (“Mike”) Michael (Diana) Podawiltz, and Polly Ann Grell (Chuck Grell).  Grandchildren are Joseph Allen III, Joshua, April, Benjamin (B.J.), Amber Podawiltz-Campbell, Jack Grell, and Grace Grell.  He is also the proud great-grandfather of James Campbell.

Joe loved his country.  He served in both WWII and the Korean War, retiring from the MN National Guard with the rank of Major.  His dedication to the service of others extended to many years of service at both the Veterans Hospital and the St. Cloud Hospital.

After the death of Rosemary on January 18, 1999, Joe married Henrietta (Hank) Bach and became the step-father to her 12 children: Barbara Durenberger, Nancy Wilferd, Kate Gott, Gayle Joseph, Jeanne Painter, Paul Bach, Margee Berglund, Joyce Bach, Carrie Schiffler, Needie Bergstrom, Jim Bach, and John Bach.  He was also step-grandfather to Hank’s 36  grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren.  Hank passed away on May 3, 2017.

In addition to his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Joe is survived by a brother and two sisters: Allan Podawiltz, Jr., Betty Schwinden- Wendt, and June Jones.

Like many others of his generation, Joe knew the meaning of sacrifice in order to make a better future for his family, and truly knew how to live “one day at a time”.  He enjoyed many of the simple things in life (especially beer), and was devoted to both his families.  Along the way, Joe touched the lives of many people, making a real difference in their lives.  He was an excellent role model for many, especially his children.  He will be sorely missed but never forgotten.  Dad, your lessons will be handed down for others to emulate.  Goodbye Dad, Grandpa, Papa, Papa Joe and Great –Grandpa. We loved you dearly, and we know you loved us.

A celebration of Joe’s life will be held in St. Cloud at VFW Granite Post 428, 9 18th Ave. North on Saturday, October 14, 2017 from 2 PM until 4 PM.  Family and friends are invited to attend.  The family invites you to leave a message or memory in their “Guest Book” at www.virginvalleymortuary.com.   Our gratitude to the staff of the BeeHive Retirement Community of Mesquite for the love and compassion they shared with Dad.