Joseph William Walsh

Joseph William Walsh, 85, of Chatfield passed away Friday, October 6, 2017 at the Chatfield Care Center.

Joe was born December 12, 1931 in La Crosse, Wisconsin to William and Gertrude (Hennessy) Walsh.   He graduated from Lanesboro High School in 1949.  On May 8, 1954 he married Margaret Burton at St. John’s Catholic Church in Rochester.

In 1954 he began his service to his country in the US Army.

He worked as lineman and a service representative for Alliant Energy for 38 years.  In retirement he enjoyed working at the Chatfield school and St. Mary’s Church.

Joe was active in his community and always willing to help out family, friends, and neighbors.  He was a member of the American Legion, Eagles, Lions.  He volunteered for years for the Meals on Wheels.  He was a handyman who liked to fix and repair lawnmowers.  He loved polka music and rarely missed a polka dance.  He was very active in his church community and had a deep Catholic faith.  He received a Vatican blessing from Pope Francis for his 85th birthday.

Joe is lovingly remembered by his wife, Margaret; children: Sheila Rainey (Rick Chapman) of Rochester, Mike  Walsh (Natalie Smith) of Rochester, Julie (Jerry) Olson of Spring Valley, Marcia (Doug) Wilson of Rochester, Susann Walsh of Rochester, Trisha (Craig) Lestrud of Hartland, Coleen (John) Sexton of Rochester, Jennifer (Dave) Anderson of Rochester, Patrick (Heather) Walsh of Rochester.   Eleven grandchildren and Nine great grandchildren also survive.

He was preceded in death by his parents,

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 AM on Tuesday, October 10, 2017 at the St. Mary's Catholic Church in Chatfield with Father Edward McGrath officiating.  Visitation will be held from 5:00 - 7:30 PM on Monday, October 9, 2017 at  St. Mary's Catholic Church in Chatfield.  Visitation will continue one hour prior to service at church on Tuesday.  Committal will be at the Calvary Cemetery in Chatfield.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Bear Creek Services (3108 Highway 52 North Rochester, MN 55901.)

The family thanks the Chosen Valley Care Center and Seasons Hospice for the thoughtful care provided to Joe and the family.

Riley Funeral Home in Chatfield is assisting the family with arrangements.  To share a condolence with the family please visit rileyfuneralhomes.com.