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.