Joseph Gavenda,Sr.

Joseph J. Gavenda, Sr., 89, passed away November 18, 2011. Born September 24, 1922, in Bannister, MI. He was the son of George and Maria Gavenda. Joseph married Jean Abbott, November 20, 1943 in St. Johns. She preceded him in death, February 1, 2001. Joseph was a veteran of WWII and served in the Philippines, and was a member of VFW Post #3733. He was retired from Fisher Body in Lansing and was a member of local #602.

Joseph is survived by four children, Jean (Larry) Baker of Perrinton, Joseph (Mary) Gavenda of Ashley, Joann (Dale) Walton of St. Johns, Jim (Linda) Gavenda of Maple Rapids, daughter in law, Sue Gavenda of Ithaca, 16 grandchildren, 29 great grandchildren, his sister in law, Pat Abbott, as well as many nieces and nephews. Joseph was preceded in death by his parents. Three brothers, Steve, Andy, George, and son, Jerry Gavenda.

Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:30 a.m., Monday, November 21, 2011, at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Fowler, with Fr. Dennis Howard presiding. Burial will follow the service at Sowle Cemetery. The family will receive friends Sunday, 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m., with a scripture service at 7 p.m., at The Osgood Funeral Home in St. Johns. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society. The family was served by The Osgood Funeral Homes.