JOSEPH DEMERATH

Joseph G. Demerath, of Neenah, age 53, passed away at the UW-Medical Center in Madison, surrounded by his family, on Monday, January 7, 2013, following a life-long battle with Cystic Fibrosis. Joe was born March 28, 1959 in Neenah, son of the late Donald and Therese (Clement) Demerath. Joe attended Neenah High School. He married Michele Tetzke at St. John the Baptist Church in Menasha on September 16, 1989. Joe was employed with Intertape Polymer Group and was a truck driver until his retirement in 2002. He met the love of his life at Intertape Polymer Group while she was working as summer help. Joe enjoyed the outdoors, spending time at Moody Lake near Mountain, WI, and camping in Iron Mountain, MI. He loved woodworking, cooking, eating, and watching the Green Bay Packers, Wisconsin Badger football and Chicago Cubs. Joe was known to many as Mr. Fix-it! Survivors include his loving wife, Michele; three sisters; Denise Demerath, Sally Wautlet and Diane Demerath; a brother, Jerome (Linda) Demerath; a brother-in-law, Barry Tetzke; his father and mother-in-law; David and Karen Tetzke; their beloved golden retriever and best buddy, Freddie; and numerous nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great nephews. Joe was preceded in death by his brother, Thomas Demerath; his sister, Pamela Demerath; his brother-in-law, Michael Wautlet; his nephew, Michael Van Deslunt; and their beloved furry four legged buddies: Hobbes, Bandit and Dakota. A funeral service will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 12, 2013, at Neenahs Westgor Funeral Home with Todd Van Deslunt officiating. The visitation will be held on Saturday from 3:00 p.m. until the hour of service. In lieu of flowers a memorial is being established for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in Josephs name. Joe, I didnt want to let you go, but I knew I had to do what was best for you. I love you so much it hurts! You fought so valiantly these past few years and it is time for you to be at peace. You are the love of my life, my soul mate, and best friend! Give our kids a big hug and kiss from me. Until we are together again. I love you more! Love, Michele