Joseph “Joe” Phifer JR., 87, entered into rest peacefully in his home on Tuesday, March 30, in French Camp. He was born on May 29, 1922 in Donnelly, Minnesota to the late Joseph and Ora Phifer. Joe joins his loving wife of 55 years, Lois Phifer, in heaven, as well as his parents and siblings; Helen Phifer, Jean Sherstead and brother-in-law’s Carsten Sherstead and Clyde Caldart and sister-in-law Catherine Phifer.    

Mr. Phifer is survived by his only daughter Barbara A Raetz. He was the loving grandpa to Brian Raetz. He was blessed with two great-grandchildren Oliver and Max Raetz. In addition he has 3 surviving siblings Cora Caldart, Lee Phifer of Valley Springs, and Noel Phifer and wife Beverly of Minnesota.

Joe proudly served his country through the United States Navy for six years. While in the Navy, Joe fought in WWII receiving his purple heart for his bravery. After his time in the Navy, Joe started working at Sharpe Army Depot as a mechanic, retiring after 50 years of service. Joe was a quiet man who loved animals. As a young child and throughout his adulthood Joe raised chickens as his companions; feeding and nurturing them daily. He enjoyed the outdoors growing fruit and vegetable gardens and sharing his crops with family and friends. He always like to can his home grown fruit as well as make homemade jelly’s. Joe will be remembered as an extremely caring man always looking out for others. He will be missed.

Mr. Phifer’s services are being handled by P.L. Fry & Son Funeral Home of Manteca. A memorial service will be held at the VFW in Angels Camp on Sunday, May 26. A graveside service with full military honors will be held on Monday April 26, at 12:30 p.m. at San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery, Gustine , California. An on-line guest book is available for condolences to the family at www.plfryandson.com.