Joseph Edward Sestric

Joe's life began on March 5, 1921 in Pittsburg, PA, the son of Michael and Katherine Sestric. He served his country in the United States Navy from 1942 until 1947. During his years in the service, Joe found time to marry the love of his life, Lucille Behnke on April 15, 1944 in Dowagiac. He was employed as an inspector with Clark Equipment in Benton Harbor for 28 years. Joe was a founding member of the Indian Lake Fire Department, a life member of VFW Post #1855 in Dowagiac and American Legion Post 563 in Dowagiac. Joe never met a stranger and he loved to have conversations, anytime about anything with anyone. His greatest joy was his family which includes his children Katherine (Terry) DeWald of Medina, OH and Robert L. (Leslie) Sestric of Dowagiac, grandchildren Amy (Jon) Reed of Scottsdale, AZ, Keiffer (Jon DaMaat) Sestric of Holland, Sara DeWald of San Francisco, John E. (Eiko Haruta) Sestric of Ogaki, Japan and Katherine “Kate” DeWald of San Francisco, great grandchildren Wyatt Joseph Reed and Lucy Mae Reed. Joe passed away at his home on Tuesday January 18, 2011. He is preceded in death by his wife Lucille in 2005 and two brothers Robert and Raymond Sestric. His family will gather with friends on Sunday from 2-4 p.m. at Yazel & Clark Chapel where his memorial service will be held at 4 p.m. Sunday led by Dr. Chuck Burling. Joe will be laid to rest in Mission Hills Cemetery at a later date. Memorial contributions in his name may be directed to Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan. Please sign his guestbook and leave a memory of Joe at www.yazel-clark.com.