Joseph Leo Meissen

Joseph Leo Meissen, Jr., age 83, of Guttenberg, IA, died Friday, December 21, 2012, at the Guttenberg Municipal Hospital. He was born on October 25, 1929, in Lawler IA, to Joseph Leo Sr. and Elizabeth (Hormish) Meissen. Joe received his education in the Lawler area and worked various jobs after his schooling. On April 9, 1953, Joe was united in marriage to Virginia Hovey in Lawler IA. This marriage blessed them with two daughters. For many years, Joe worked for Rath Packing Company in Waterloo as an electric truck operator. He spent some time working for All American Homes as well. Joes greatest pleasure in life was his family. Without speaking of it, you could expect to travel to Guttenberg almost every weekend form Memorial Day to Labor Day to spend time on the river and camping with family and friends. This was something the entire family could enjoy together and it brought happiness to all. Joe was an avid cook and baker. He enjoyed preparing meals for his family and later took over most of the baking duties and he did it with a smile of enjoyment. Even at the local bank he was known as Betty Crocker. The employees would always ask Joe, what have you been baking lately. Sometimes he would anticipate this question and come prepared with treats that he shared with many. Joe will be forever loved and cherished by his two daughters, Linda (Jack) Benskin and Cynthia (Fianc Rory Kempf) Langenfeld both of Guttenberg; four grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, sister Emiliana Meissen of Dubuque; one brother John "Jack" Meissen of Lawler and several other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Virginia; one sister, Rose Klepper and one brother Raymond Meissen.Memorial Service: Saturday 10:00 A.M. December 29, 2012 at St. John's Lutheran Church Guttenberg, IowaVisitation: Saturday 9:00 - 10:00 A.M. December 29, 2012 at St. John's Lutheran Church Guttenberg, IowaInterment: Guttenberg City Cemetery Service Information A service summary is not available