Joseph A. Meznarich, 80, of Altoona, passed away Tuesday, November 20, 2007, at Luther Hospital in Eau Claire. He was born on November 29, 1926, in Strickland, WI to Frank and Mary (Jessick) Meznarich. Joe graduated from Stanley High School in 1944.\r\nJoe served in the U.S. Navy from February 16, 1945, until the time of his honorable discharge on July 11, 1946. Afterward, he worked at various bakeries in Stanley, Minneapolis, and Chicago and was well known for his elegant wedding cakes.\r\nHe married June A. Irwin on June 30, 1972.\r\nJoe worked at UW-EC as a Baker for over twenty-five years. \r\nHe was a dedicated member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Altoona.\r\nJoe enjoyed his family, golfing, gardening, going to thrift sales, and the Chicago Cubs.\r\nHe is survived by his children, John (Judy) Meznarich of Fond du Lac, Paul Meznarich of Waldport, OR, Peter (Tonia) Meznarich of Rosemount, MN, and Jodi Meznarich of Altoona; two sisters, Joan Meznarich and Carol Meznarich Howard, both of Milwaukee; and a brother, Robert "Skip" (Jill) Meznarich of Hartford, WI; seven grandchildren, David, Emma, Jacob, Samantha, Ashley, Kayley, and Baby Meznarich; and by many nieces, nephews, aunts, and cousins.\r\nHe was preceded in death by his parents and June Meznarich.\r\n Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, November 24, 2007, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Altoona with Father Norbert J. Wilger celebrating the Mass. Entombment will be in Resurrection Chapel Mausoleum at Calvary Cemetery, Eau Claire. Family and friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday and one hour prior to Mass Saturday at St. Mary's Catholic Church. A public rosary service will be held 7:30 p.m. Friday at church. Lenmark-Gomsrud-Linn Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family.\r\nMemorials may be directed to St. Mary's Catholic Church, 1812 Lynn Ave., Altoona, WI 54720. \r\n

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