Funeral services for Joseph D. Messick, 86, of Centerville, Ohio, were held Friday, March 25, 2011 at the First Baptist Church of Kettering in Dayton, Ohio. The Revs. James Gifford and Nick Osborn officiated. Burial with Military Honors followed at David’s Cemetery in Kettering. Tobias Funeral Home-Far Hills Chapel in Washington Township, Ohio was in charge of arrangements.

Mr. Messick passed away Wednesday, March 16, 2011 at Kettering Medical Center.

He was born on August 19, 1924 in Kansas City, Missouri to Lon V. and Jewel Margaret Duncan Messick.

He retired from the U.S. Army. He served in World War II, where he received a Purple Heart; the Korean Conflict and the Vietnam War. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Kettering and the Thomas-Bridges Association.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers Jim, Bill, Kenneth and Lon Messick, Jr.; and a sister, Alice Weaver.

Survivors include his wife of 67 years, Jewell Ellis Messick; three children, Wayne D. Messick and his wife Pat of New York City, New York, Gary Ray Messick and his wife Vickie of San Jose, Calif., and Sandra S. Slayton and her husband Jim of Centerville, Ohio; seven grandchildren; brother Richard W. Messick; and three sisters, Norma Porter, Betty Jean Rutherford, and Marjorie Sade.

Memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church of Kettering. Condolences may be made to www.tobiasfuneralhome.com.