JOSEPH WALLACE McNEALEY, 77, passed away at his home in Birdsview on Friday July 2, 2004 after a courageous battle with cancer.
He was born on January 6, 1927 in Green City, Missouri, the son of James H. & Mary N. O’Neal McNealey.
He was raised and attended school in Laramie, WY, and also from where he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he served during WW II. After his return home he made his home in Smithfield, Utah where he worked on the family ranch with his father. He later moved to Seeley Lake, Montana where he met and was later united in marriage to Joelene Stokes on June 28, 1957. They made their home in Birdsview and Joe worked as a diesel mechanic for Scott Paper for many years.
Joe loved spending time with his 15 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren, all of which were his favorites. He also liked working on cars and woodworking, watching John Wayne movies and reading until his eyesight was gone. Joe’s line to live by was, ‘Mind your own business and go your own way. Keep your mouth shut and walk away.’ Joe will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Joelene, at the family home. 3 sons and daughters-in-law, Skip & Marie McNealey of Burlington, Wayne & Jackie McNealey of Forks, WA and Casey & Jill McNealey of Birdsview. 2 daughters, Becky Blankenship and husband Scott and Kelly McNealey all of Birdsview. 2 sisters, Betty Johnson of Jordan, MT and Jean Smith and husband Bob of Skiatook, OK. His mother-in-law, Nellie Stokes in Montana. Also numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles and 8 brothers-in-law and 9 sisters-in-law. Also special friends, Jim Lowe, Sadako Ganuha, Rick O’Neil and Joe Perry. He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Jerri and his father-in-law, Ron Stokes.
Memorials are suggested to North Puget Oncology, 2000 Hospital Dr. Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284.
Graveside Services will be held on Wednesday July 7, 2004 at 3:00 PM at Forest Park Cemetery in Concrete.
Arrangements under direction of Lemley Chapel, Sedro-Woolley. Share memories of Joe and sign the online guest register at www.lemleychapel.com