Master Sgt Joseph W. Britsch (Ret) USMC walked steadfast in his final journey, a continual inspiration in courage & attitude succumbed Wednesday, 9.3.03 at 4:30 am, at the age of 86 years, 24 days at Loomis, CA, in his battle with lukeumea. Joe was born August 10, 1917, in Hondo, TX, the son of Willie H. & Frances Magdelene (Weiss) Britsch Joe was well known & loved by the community who called him Tex. He will be buried in the family plot in his beloved State of Texas. He was a proud Marine who served his country in WWII. He received several medals including a presidential citation. Our beloved father grand & great grand father is survived by his wife of 58 years, Bonnie J. Britsch. His children Shirley Peich, Marilyn Britsch, Gina Riedl & Joe Michael Britsch (also a former Marine), five grand children , and eight great grand children. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister: Corinne Britsch. A Graveside Service with full military honors was held in the Hondo Cemetery, Oakwood Section, Saturday, September 6, at 11:00 a.m.