Joseph Edward Funk

Racine – Joseph Edward Funk, 92, passed away at WFH All Saints Hospital on Sunday, November 23, 2014. He was born on June 2, 1922, son of the late William and Mary (nee: Mueller) Funk.  Joe was a lifelong resident of Racine, and was a 1940 graduate of St. Catherine’s High School. Joe served with pride in the US Army in Europe from 1943 – 1946. On February 17, 1947 he was united in marriage to Priscilla “June” Funk. She preceded him in death on August 29, 2010.

Joe enjoyed a long and successful career in automobile sales, serving many satisfied customers at Racine Ford, Schmerler Ford, and Towne Ford. He also operated his own car lot, Taylor Avenue Auto Sales. Joe will be remembered for his quick-witted humor, his gentlemanly manner, and kind heart. Joe was a faithful member of St. Richard’s Catholic Church.

Joe will be missed by his daughter, Phyllis (Dennis) Coffey of Whitefish Bay; son-in-law, Richard Klaus of Hayward; grandchildren, Joe (Susan) Klaus, John (Karen) Klaus, Ed Klaus, and Rachel (Roman) Koshkin; 5 great-grandchildren; and his loving companion and caregiver, Barbara Nagy of Racine. He is further survived by his brothers and sisters, Bill Funk of Kenosha, Bob Funk of Union Grove, Lawrence Funk of Kenosha, Marie Guard of Sturtevant, Ruth Field of Racine, Rose (Peter) Trecroci of Kenosha, and Rita Barth of Kenosha; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Gail Louise Klaus; brother, Raymond Funk; and sister, Theresa Celeste.

The funeral mass for Joseph E. Funk will be held in St. Richard’s Catholic Church (1503 Grand Avenue) on Saturday, November 29, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Ron Gramza officiating. Visitation in the church will begin at 9:30 a.m. Interment and military honors will be rendered at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 1, 2014 at the Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Union Grove. Donations to St. Richard’s Church in Joe’s memory have been suggested.

Heartfelt thanks and gratitude to the nurses and staff at WHF All Saints 5th floor cardiac unit; and to Mary, Kathy, and the staff at the Wheaton Franciscan Hospice.