Joseph M. “Joe” Muesch, 84, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2012 at his home, surrounded by his family.

He was born July 4, 1928 in Odendorf, Germany, to Joseph and Gertrude (Kuemple) Muesch. Joe was united in marriage to Elizabeth “Betty” Koehler on Aug. 22, 1959 at St. Kilian Catholic Church.

Joe worked at Libby’s for 40 years where he met many of his longtime friends who enjoyed keeping in touch with him. He raised rabbits, and enjoyed gardening, listening to Polka music and watching sports. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and St. Kilian Catholic church. Joe loved family gatherings and spending time with his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife Elizabeth; son Robert (Lynn) Muesch of St. Lawrence, daughter Mary Ellen (Mark) Rothenhoefer of Slinger; grandchildren Jason, Brandon, Michelle, Aaron, Stone, and Marissa; and his sisters Katherine Pfeifer, Gertrude (Harold) Krebs, and Anna (Wallace) Rettler. He is further survived by other relatives and friends.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, brother Henry Muesch, and his brother-in-law Wilbert Pfeifer.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Joe will be held on Saturday, Dec. 15, 2012 at noon at St. Kilian Catholic Church, 264 W. State St., Hartford, with the Rev. David LaPlante officiating. The family will greet relatives and friends on Saturday at the Shimon Funeral Home, 824 Union St., Hartford, from 9-11:30 a.m. Interment at St. Kilian Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to St. Kilian’s church or the charity of one's choice are appreciated.

The Muesch family wishes to extend their sincere gratitude to the healthcare staff for their compassionate care, and to their family and friends for all their prayers and support.

The Shimon Funeral Home is serving the family.

Online condolences may be found at www.shimonfuneralhome.com.