Joe W. Oppelt passed away on April 2, 2018 at the Samaritan Village in Hughson, CA. He was 97 years old. 

Joe was born on February 6, 1921 in Devine, TX. His early years were spent growing up in San Antonio, TX but he called Turlock, CA his home for more than 50 years. 

On February 19, 1958, Joe married the love of his life, Maxine Lavonne Myers in Mi-Wuk Village, CA. 

Joe served proudly for over 20 years in the United States Army, serving in both WWII as a Master Sergeant and then later in the Korean War, where he earned numerous medals of honor for his valor. After being honorably discharged, he started his management position at Housing Authority of Stanislaus. After devoting 20 years to them, he finally retired in 1980. 

A hardworking, diligent young man, Joe was always active physically and socially after his retirement. An avid walker, he walked 5 miles a day.  He was also involved with many clubs, all of which include: Shriners International, Free & Accepted Masons of California, Turlock Lodge (Master Mason), Scottish Rite of Free Masonry of S.J., USA, and the VFW of Turlock. His proudest accomplishment was his lifetime membership with the Master Mason’s. 

Joe was preceded in death by his wife, Maxine Oppelt. He is survived by his stepson, Roger L. Gregg of Turlock, CA, 11 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren and 10 great-great-grandchildren. Spirited and full-of-life, Joe will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.  

A visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Monday, April 9, followed by a funeral service at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, April 10. Both services will be held at Turlock Funeral Home, 425 N. Soderquist Rd., Turlock.