Joe McCarthy flew one final mission with God as his co-pilot when they spirited him to heaven on January 29, 2013. He died at home aged 91 surrounded by those who loved him. Orphaned at birth, he lived a life devoted to the family he created. The legacy of those he loved includes: his wife of 59 years, Mary O’Brien who predeceased him in August 2006; his children, Daniel (Sheila), Stephen (Terri), Brian (Patti) and daughter, Martha (all living locally); his grandchildren, Ryan, Shane of Portland, OR, Michael of San Francisco, CA, Eamon, Molly and Ciara; his great-granddaughters, Talia and Meadow of Portland; his sister-in-law, Pat O’Brien; many nieces and nephews and his loving friend and golden years companion, Marilyn Reynier. Joe graduated from South High in 1938 and spent the majority of his life in Grand Rapids. He was very proudly a Captain in the US Marine Corps as a B-25 pilot in the South Pacific during World War II and returned to service during the Korean Conflict. The majority of Joe’s career was spent in the construction business supplying plumbing and firefighting equipment to commercial contractors. He loved what he did and didn’t finally give it up until age 85. Joe will always be remembered and cherished for his example: the good will he radiated and his genuine belief that everybody deserved honor and dignity! The family wishes to thank Visiting Physicians, Grace Hospice and Elder’s Helpers for their kind and thoughtful care of Dad and all his friends at Van’s Bakery. The family will welcome visitors at the O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Funeral Home, 3980 Cascade Rd. SE on Friday, February 1 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM with a Rosary at 6:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Stephen Church, 750 Gladstone SE, Rev. Thomas Brown, officiating on Saturday, February 2 at 10:00 AM. A military salute will be conducted under the auspices of the Kent County Veterans Honor Guard. Interment at Woodlawn Cemetery will be private. Dad can be remembered through a contribution to the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans, 3000 Monroe Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505
