Obituary of Joseph Fitterer

Joe was born in North Dakota September 22, 1921, married the love of his life, Shirley Olson, November 25, 1946, and died peacefully July 24, 2008. Joe was proud of his North Dakota heritage, but his 60+ years as a Tacoma resident, most of them in the South Tacoma house he rebuilt and doubled with a hand-saw, made him a true Tacoman. North Dakota music (Lawrence Welk, for instance) brought great enjoyment to Joe. He always kept a special pair of shoes for dancing the fox trot, schottische and waltz. As a lifelong musician, Joe played guitar and harmonica at dances in North Dakota as a boy, continuing to play at nursing homes throughout Pierce County into his 80's. Joe was a 60+ year member of Visitation Catholic Church, where he served as an usher for decades. He was always pleased to use his pick-up truck to haul items for the parish. Those of you who have had oil furnaces in your homes may have met Joe when he visited as a representative of Pacific Coast Oil to repair your furnace. During this phase of his life he was greeted and thanked by friendly customers whenever he walked at the Tacoma Mall. Walking at the Mall became a favorite activity in his last two decades or so. The walking and coffee were good, but he really enjoyed the great friends who provided news and conversation. Joe leaves behind his loving wife Shirley, who has selflessly cared for him these past few years, his daughter Claudia (Terry) Maves and sons David (Becky) Fitterer and Kevin (Lorene) Fitterer, 5 grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren. Predeceased by parents Frank and Lena Fitterer and brother Martin. Survived by brothers Dan (Doris), Art (Deloris), and sisters Agnes, Theresa (Bill), Delphie, and sister-in-law Polly. A very special thank you to Dr. Etlinger, who expertly and caringly assisted Joe through the sometimes difficult path with rheumatoid arthritis for 30+ years. The family also wishes to thank Dr. Brand, Dr. Olivera, Sharon, and Franciscan Hospice. Memorial Mass to be held at Visitation Catholic Church, 58th and S. Warner, Saturday, August 2, 2008. Rosary 10:30 AM, Mass 11:00 AM. Reception to follow the Mass. Arrangements by Piper-Morley-Mellinger Funeral Home, 253-472-3353