Joe C. Mendoza

Joe C. Mendoza, 64, of Van Wert, passed away on Tuesday, September 12, 2023 at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne Indiana. He was born on November 2, 1958, in San Antonio, Texas, to his late parents, George and Carlota (Cantu) Mendoza.

Joe served his country proudly as a member of the United States Marine Corp., where he demonstrated bravery and dedication during his military service.

Joe dedicated many years of his life working at Eaton. Known for his meticulous attention to detail, he was very particular about how things were done. Joe's commitment to perfection was evident in every task he undertook.

Outside of work Joe had a wide range interests and hobbies that brought him great joy. He was an avid football fan and had an unwavering allegiance to the Dallas Cowboys. He enjoyed spending quality time with his family and loved his nieces and nephews as if they were his own children. In addition to his passion for sports Joe found solace in gardening and working outside.

Joe is survived by his adoring sisters: Celia Thatcher, Mary Unterbrink, Sylvia (John) Salinas, Irene (Manuel) Alvarado and Christine Keck, all of Van Wert; brothers: Frank and Edward Mendoza of San Antonio; Simon Mendoza of Van Wert; 21 nieces and nephews; 44 great nieces and great nephews; as well as 9 great-great nieces and great-great nephews.

In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by his sister, Lydia Mendoza; brothers: Robert, George Jr, David, Gilbert and Raul Mendoza; beloved nieces Lisa, Klarisa, Cristina, and Lauri; as well as his brother-in-law, Greg Unterbrink.

Visitation will take place from 2 to 6 on Friday, September 15, 2023 at the Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, 722 S Washington St. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on Saturday, September 16, 2023 at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, 601 Jennings Rd. Fr. Chris Bohnsack, celebrant. Following the Mass, Joe will be laid to rest at Woodland Cemetery located 10968 Woodland Ave in Van Wert.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Joe`s memory may be sent to the American Lung Association, www.lung.org.

To share in Joe‘s online memorial, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com.