Joe Robert Hoffmeister, 76, of Jackson passed away Wednesday, May 20, 2015, at his home.

He was born Sept. 30, 1938, in Cape Girardeau, to Joseph H. and Bertha Cuskaden Hoffmeister. He and Marie Nussbaum were married Aug. 17, 1963, in Gordonville.

Joe was a 1957 graduate of Jackson High School.

He honorably served more than eight years in the Missouri National Guard 135th Engineer Battalion in Cape Girardeau.

As his wife put it, "Joe lived to farm." And farm he did, crops and cattle. He and Marie resided on and farmed Joe's family farm north of Jackson, and he also farmed south of Cape Girardeau.

Loving survivors include his wife of nearly 52 years, Marie of Jackson; a daughter, Martha "Marty" Ahrends of Lincoln, Illinois; two grandchildren, Joseph and Caroline Ahrends of Lincoln; and a nephew, Joe David (Laura) James III of Jackson.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Mary Ann James.

Joe's preference was to be cremated. In keeping with his wishes, services will be private.

Memorials may take the form of contributions to the donor's choice of church or charity.

Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting mccombsfuneralhome.com.