CERNE, Joseph 1922-2012

CERNE, OPPEDAL

Posted By: Tammy (email)
Date: 3/25/2015 at 08:27:38

Joseph Cerne, 89, of Grundy Center, Iowa passed away Friday, June 8, 2012, at the Grundy Care Center while under the care of Cedar Valley Hospice. A memorial service will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 12, 2012, at the American Lutheran Church in Grundy Center. Burial will be held privately by the family.

Joe was born on October 30, 1922, in Cherokee, Kansas, the son of Anton and Josephine Cerne. Joe was raised and educated in Pittsburg, Kansas. He entered the United States Navy in 1941 and served his country for three years during World War II. Upon his honorable discharge he returned to the United States and relocated to Iowa. There he began his career working for the Standard Oil Company. Years later he began his own business known as the Cerne Farm Center. He retired after 45 years of service to the surrounding communities.

Joe was united in marriage to Elaine Oppedal on January 14, 1949, in Marshalltown, Iowa. Together they welcomed four daughters into their family. Joe was a very active member of the American Lutheran Church in Grundy Center. The church was a central part of his life. He served on the church council for 15 years and was a vital member of the committees responsible for the planning and construction of two church renovations. Joe was a member of the Grundy Center American Legion and served on the planning committee responsible for the construction of the Grundy Center Community Center. Joe was an avid golfer, hunter, and fisherman; however, his true joy came from spending time with his family and friends.

Joe is survived by his wife Elaine; daughters Pam (Tom) Elitharp of Donnelly, Idaho, Cindy (Dennis) Dirks of Grundy Center, Iowa, Jill (Rick) Dietz of Indianola, Iowa, and Jennifer Cerne of Seattle, Washington; 7 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren and brother Frank Cerne.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 2 brothers, and 2 sisters.

--Abels Funeral Homes (www.abelsfuneralhomes.com)
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