Joseph J. Zemke

Meriden- Joseph J. Zemke, 84, beloved husband of 59 years of Sarah ''Sally'' Zemke of Catherine Dr., passed away in MidState Medical Center, Sat. August 30, 2003 after a brief illness. In addition to his wife he is survived by a daughter, Kathleen Ryan of Waterford, CT, 2 sons, Peter J. Zemke of South Meriden and Joel L. Zemke of Guilford, CT, a sister, Frances Kindt of New Britain, 8 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild. He was predeceased by a sister, Catherine Amann. Mr. Zemke was born in Meriden, July 2, 1919 a son of the late August and Louise Nenninger Zemke and resided in Meriden for most of his life. Prior to retirement he was Chief Engineer for the Gaynor Electrical Co. of Waterbury. While employed there he was invited to serve on the U.L. Board and was responsible for several switch patients. he served in the US Navy during WW II as a submarine sonarman 2c and later attended Tri-State College of Indiana where he received degrees in electrical and radio engineering. Joseph was an avid sportsman and spent quality time hunting and fishing with his sons and grandsons. He was a member of the Stanley Budleski VFW Post #9965 of Yalesville and the WW II ''Pacific Old Salts.'' Funeral service Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2003 at 10 a.m. a Hubbard Chapel at Walunt Grove Cemetery. The Rev. George True will officiate. Burial will follow in Walnut Grove. Friends may call Monday from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. at BEECHER & BENNETT FLATOW FUNERAL HOME, 48 Cook Ave., Meriden. Contributions in his memory may be sent to the American Cancer Society, 127 Washington Ave., North Haven, CT 06473.