Joseph Louis Bendele, Jr., of Devine passed away April 7, 2021 at the age of 81.
He was born Dec. 10, 1939 at home on the farm to Joseph Louis Bendele, Sr., and Elizabeth Pauline Theis Bendele. Both preceded him in death along with sisters Irene, Leona, Lorene, and Edna; granddaughters Misty Moreno and Crystal Bendele; stepson Robbie Alexander; and step-grandson Justin Schamblin.
He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Linda Williams Alexander Bendele; sisters Evelyn DuBose, Elizabeth Braden, Pauline Clements (Neil), Alice Neighlinger (Chuck); children Fritz Bendele, Joseph Bendele III, Deborah Moreno (Glen), Byron Bendele (Beckie), Cindy Bendele, Nicole Mueller (Mike); stepchildren Mike Alexander (Angie), Cindy Brown (Scott), with 21 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.
Joe’s Life Story
Joe was born a blue baby and his mother saved his life.
Joe and all his sisters walked to Shook School. He was in the band in the early ’50s. Joe quit school in the 11th grade and became a vacuum cleaner salesman.
Joe married Alma Calloway and they had one son and divorced. Then he married Zelma Trull and they had five children then divorced. Then he married Linda Williams, who had three children, and they were married 42 years.
Joe had many different jobs in his life. He was a truck driver, farmer, butcher, apple grower, mechanic, carpenter, and ranch manager for 30 years until he had a stroke in 2007 and moved back to Devine.
Joe loved life and all his family and made many friends along the way. He was very respected and loved by all. His favorite hobby was playing “42” with family and friends. He will be dearly missed. May he rest in peace and God bless.
Memorial service to be announced.