Joseph Samuel Kassebaum

Joseph Samuel Kassebaum, 88, of Sandpoint passed away Friday, June 29, 2012 at his home. Graveside services will be conducted 2:00PM, Thursday, July 5, 2012 at Pack River Cemetery. Military rites will be conducted by the U.S. Marine Corps. Joseph was born December 30, 1923 in Bakers Corner, Indiana the son of Harry and Mary Kassebaum. On June 6, 1942 he enlisted in the US Marine Corps achieving the rank of Master Gunnery Sergeant. He served his country faithfully until his discharge on July 15, 1969. He served in World War II, the Korean Conflict, and the Vietnam War. While in the Marines he received the Silver Star, Bronze Star, and the Purple Heart for injuries received in Korea. Joseph married Mearlene Engle on June 30, 1946 in Winona Lake, Indiana. While he was in the service they lived in eight states finally moving to Sandpoint in 1978 from Oceanside, CA. He was a member of the Evangelical Free Church and the Fleet Reserve Association. He is survived by his two children: JoEllen Kassebaum of San Diego, CA, Bruce A. Kassebaum of Vista, CA; six grandchildren: 6 great grandchildren; and 1 sister Barbara R Harmon of Anderson, IN. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Mearlene in 2010, 1 brother Robert and 1 sister Jessie Rebecca.