Joseph "Big Joe" A Kroeckel, 59, Defiance, formerly of Holgate, passed away on Tuesday, October 22, 2013 at ProMedica Defiance Regional Hospital.

He was born on September 6, 1954 to Donald and Betty (Shock) Kroeckel in Defiance.

Joseph worked at Johns Manville. He was a member of the Glass Blowers Union. Joseph loved working with his hands and tinkering with items. He was an avid animal lover and a man of many stories. He was always happy and loved spending time with his grandchildren..

Joseph is survived by his daughters, Mickie (Erik) Birr of Defiance, Christina (Tee) Jenkins of Continental, Martha Gordon of Continental, Amber Wright of Defiance, son, Steven (Katherine) Kroeckel of Ft. Wayne, IN, 11 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren, brothers, Kim Kroeckel of Wauseon, Donnie Kroeckel of Paris, MO, Roger Kroeckel of Defiance and Dave Kroeckel of Defiance.

He was preceded in death by his parents, granddaughter, Patricia Embry, brother, Danny Kroeckel and sisters, Sandra Cranford and Betty Kroeckel..

Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Saturday, October 26, 2013 at Schaffer Funeral Home, Defiance, with the memorial service immediately following at 12:00 p.m. with Tony Pollock officiating.

The family suggest memorials be made to the Henry County Humane Society.