Joseph Robert Marple Jr.

Joseph "Joe" Marple went into the arms of his Savior on May 21st, 2019. He was born in Lincoln Nebraska December 29th, 1931 to Joseph R. Marple Sr. and Maudie Marple. Joseph spent his early years in Nebraska. Meeting the love of his life Dorothy in high school. They married as soon as she graduated and moved to Grandview, WA in 1955. Buying the Stover farm upon moving to Grandview, Joe put his love of farming to work. Harvesting a cherry orchard and cultivating a beautiful concord grape vineyard. Often putting in 18 hour days, Joe wasn't one to shy away from hard work. He decided farming just wasn't enough and decided to open up a used car lot and mechanic shop at the farm. Dot was a homemaker in their early years as well as a world traveling baton instructor. Joe had an amazing story about climbing all the way to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Speaking of stories, Joe was a pretty quiet man for the most part, letting Dot do most of his talking for him. However, once he got to know you, boy oh boy were you in for a treat! He was an amazing storyteller. Telling tales of his early days in Nebraska, all the many world wide trips he and Dorothy went on as well as some pretty funny fishing trips. Dot's love of antiques allowed for them to create yet another business endeavor. Opening Dot's Antiques in the early 1980's. Joe built her an antique shop at the farm but she soon expanded to several other locations. Their love for travel taking them to antique shows, and car shows showcasing their antiques and old car parts. In his later years, after losing Dorothy he would continue those fond traditions with his granddaughter Charity. The two working at his antique booth in Yakima, and going to estate and yard sales together. Always out looking for those "Good buys".The loss of this wonderful man will be felt forever in hearts of those close to him. He was a a shining example of love, honesty, and dedication. Always having a kind word on his lips, an amazing tenacity in the face of negativity and strong spiritual beliefs. Putting his love for God first and foremost.
Joe is survived by his brother Paul (Jill) Marple, brother Phil Marple, his granddaughter Charity (Josh) Carpino, his grandson Joey (Angela) Marple and their children, his great grandchildren Gage, Gavin and Violet Marple and daughter in law Lupe (Dave) Lorenz.

No formal services will be held. Those wishing to sign Joe’s online memorial book may do so at www.funeralhomesmith.com Smith Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

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