Joe G. Morales, 64, died unexpectedly on Monday, June 13, 2011.
He was born in Cotulla, TX on June 19, 1946, the son of Rosalio and Luisa (nee: Sanchez) Morales. On December 7, 1968, he married Sara Lopez, the love of his life. They renewed their vows in 1993.
Joe proudly served his nation with the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. After serving his duty he worked as a tool and die maker for JI Case (now CNH) for over 36 years, retiring in 2000.
Joe had many interests and passions in his life. He loved music, especially his guitar. Over the past 50 years he played and led many different bands.
Joe also believed in service. He served on the boards for the Wisconsin Scholarship Foundation, the Racine Literacy Council, San Juan Diego School and the Wisconsin State Public Defender Board where he also served as Vice President and Community Outreach Chair. Joe also was a member of the LULAC Council and the American Legion. However, his greatest joy came from serving his family as a husband, father, grandfather and brother. He was the recipient of the U.M. O. S. Hispanic Family of the Year.
In addition to his wife Sara, he is survived by his daughters, Cynthia (Gary) Herb, Cassandra (Porfirio Salcedo) Morales-Salcedo and granddaughter, Julissa Eva Marie Salcedo. Joe is also survived by his sisters and brothers, Rosa Garibay, Janie Serra, Maria Morales, Matias, Natividad and Jesus Morales; his Marine brother, Gary Sepalla; as well as numerous family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Rosalio and Luisa Morales and his brothers, Rosalio and Felipe Morales.
Family and friends are invited to meet at the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home on Friday evening for a visitation from 5-8 p.m. A graveside service will be held with the Marine Corps military honors at Holy Cross Cemetery in Caledonia at 10:00 a.m. Those wishing to attend may meet at the gate of the cemetery at 9:45 am.
Manuel Lozano says
My deepest condolences to Joe's Family. Joe was a great friend and a person I truly admired. I personally know he had received Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and I'm glad he made heaven. Romans 10:9-10 We'll miss you until we see you again Joe. Love from Manuel Lozano, family and Word of Faith Family Church!
Mona Barrientez says
Dear, Sara, Cindy and Cassandra I am so sorry to hear about Joe. I will say a prayer for your family to give you the strength to get this through this sad loss.
Albert Lozano & Family says
Joe and I played in a few bands in the late 60's & early 70's. My wife Virginia & I shared a few meals with Joe, Sarah and his daughter Cindy (who used to call me Ebbet). After I left Racine we kinda lost touch with each other. I will always remember Joe for his kind and gentle spirit, and as one of the best guitarist in Racine. Praying for peace for the family.
Benny Ramos says
To Sarah Morales And Family, Joe's death has sadden all of us. I remember that on our early arrival in WI, from San Antonio Texas he and Sarah became our closes friends. My wife Hope and I spent much joyous times together with them. Oh what beautiful times with him to remember. In my opinion Joe was one of the most accomplished guitarist and musician in the hispanic music. No one could accompany like joe, not in tejano music. Please accept our sympathy and condolence.Our Hearts and prayers are with you. As A mother comforts her child so will I comfort you (Isaiah 66:13) If there is anything my family and I can do comadre, please feel free to call on us. Good bye compadre! Benny Ramos and family.
Danny and Julie Berkos says
Sarah – I was shocked and saddened by this news. Joe was a huge asset to the Public Defender Board and had one of the kindest hearts I have ever known. His passing is a terrible loss to all of us and he will be dearly missed. My condolences to you and your family God Bless.
Judy Burbach & Eric Vega says
Sara, Cindy and Cassandra – our deepest sympathy to all of you. We are so sad to hear of your loss. We will miss him greatly! Our prayers and thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Maryann Pape says
On behalf of Sarah Mesa and family, our deepest sympathy to Sara and family. Will always remember Joe and his beauiful smile.
Deborah Smith says
Joe was so kind and such an inspirational leader. We were lucky to have him on our Board. All my best wishes to his family at this time of loss.
Nancy Wettersten says
I was so very sorry to learn of Joe’s untimely death. His service on the State Public Defender Board was unmatched, and we will sorely miss him. My sympathies to Joe’s family and friends.
Srdjan & Koka Cemerikic says
Joe was a frend. Joe is alive in our heart and will not be forsaken nor forgoten. Memories will keep him alive and the rest is up to our blief, faith and trust in a power infinitely mightier than those words. God bless Joe. God bless you and keep you endered to his spirit forever.
Adrian & Nidia Diaz says
Dear Sara & Daughters
We feel your pain and sorrow in this difficult times.
Cordially, Adrian & Nidia Diaz
Nick Chiarkas says
The world just became a little darker without you Joe…I miss you already my brother. Peace, Nick
Richard Anchondo says
I’m so sorry to hear of Joes death ,I recently met him at McDonalds 2 weeks ago,my Mother (Maria Anchondo) introduced me to him, she told me Joe was my fathers (Frank Anchondo) cousin. I sat with Joe and he explained most of our family tree , we talked about a family reunion and that one was coming up, he said he would E-Mail me information on the reunion, I hope I still get a chance to attend,i’m sorry I could not attend his service,if there is anything I can do please feel free to E-Mail me .
Cynthia Morales-Herb says
On behalf of the Joe Morales Family, we want to thank everyone for your comments during this very difficult time. Our father/husband was thankful for your friendship. We will always be grateful that you shared your lives with him and we hope to continue that friendship.
Nan and Jeff Calvert says
Sara,
Today we attended Diane Dustir’s funeral and were told that Joe died recently. We are so deeply sorry.
We remember the lovely times we spent with you when we were neighbors. We remember Joe’s beautiful smile.
Peace and healing to you and your family.
Nan and Jeff