Obituary of Lance Joseph

Lance William Joseph was born on June 18, 1994. He was one of three children born to Timothy Joseph and Theresa (Waterstradt) Joseph. Lance graduated from Monroe High School with the class of 2013. At the age of 3, he was diagnosed with terminal cancer. Against all odds, he survived and remained cancer free until this February when doctors discovered the rhabdomyosarcoma had returned. Lance battled this second round with cancer with conviction, hope, courage, a sense of humor and a strong faith in God. He was a humble, unique, and respectful young man who valued integrity and honesty. Since an early age, he was mechanically inclined and loved to do things like take parts from broken lawnmowers and put them back together to create a one-of-kind, souped-up version of a lawnmower. He received a scholarship to Owens Community College and loved his job as an apprentice tool maker at ORT Tool and Dye. Lance was a member of the Monroe High School Wrestling Team, the National Technical Honor Society, and the Canvasback Gun Club. He loved his dog (Chevy), spending time with his family and friends, riding his four wheeler, boating, and wake boarding. Lance William Joseph, age 20, of Maybee, passed away peacefully at 5:20 am, Sunday June 22, 2014, with his family by his side. His passing was preceded by his grandfather, William Waterstradt. To cherish his memory he leaves his parents: Timothy and Theresa Joseph of Maybee, two brothers: Eric and Kyle Joseph of Maybee; his paternal grandparents: Richard and Bernice Joseph of Carleton; his maternal grandmother: Sarah Waterstradt of Maybee and his girlfriend: Allie Kaiser of Monroe. Friends may gather from 1:00 pm until 8:00 pm on Tuesday, June 24, 2014 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734)384-5185. A celebration of his life will be held at the North Monroe Street Church of God Mountain Assembly on Wednesday, June 25, 2014 at 11:00 am with Pastor Rick Massingill officiating. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, share a photo or make a donation by visiting www.merkle fs.com then selection online tribute page. Memorial donations are suggested to the family or to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.