Joseph "Joe" M. Cox, 63,
passed from this life on Friday, Nov. 21, 2008, due to complications from pneumonia, at Brendan House in Kalispell. He was born Nov. 7, 1945 in Lewistown, to Charles B and Rose Ann (Spence) Cox.
The family moved to Lakeside in 1948, where Joe grew up helping his parents in their marina business. He attended Lakeside School, including the original building on North Lakeside Boulevard, which later became the Little Red Schoolhouse Restaurant. Joe graduated from Flathead High School in 1965, and attended classes at Flathead Valley Community College.
Joe had many jobs over the years, probably his favorite being the maintenance of all the Kalispell Little League Baseball fields for many summers under the supervision of his long-time friend Huz Jensen. Most recently, Joe was employed at the Pita Pit in Kalispell.
Joe loved sports, and was a faithful fan of the Flathead Braves, rarely missing a football or basketball game. He also attended every possible sporting event of his beloved niece, nephew and grandniece and nephew, invariably encouraging no matter what the outcome. He was an avid Griz fan, and enjoyed their games with many of his Lakeside buddies. Joe also enjoyed playing on the Shortbranch Dart team, where he was reportedly an intense competitor.
Joe was a very kind, loyal and patient man, and was always willing to be of service if someone needed help or errands run, thoughtfully noticing when help was needed or a kindness could be given.
Joe had been a member of the Kalispell Jaycees, working with service projects through this group, and volunteered through church for the Community Kitchen. Despite a life hampered by numerous handicaps, Joe always gave much more than he took, and gave with a joyful heart.
Joe was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church, and of St. Patrick's Episcopal Church in Ferndale for many years previous to that. From a very young age, Joe clearly understood the sacrifice which Jesus Christ made for him and all people, and was an active ambassador in bringing his family and friends to accept that gift.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and three uncles, Paul Ellsworth and Pete Lytle of Lakeside, and Jack Spence of Tacoma, Wash.
He is survived by his sister, Libby Moothart, and her husband, Boyd, of Lakeside; his two aunts, Mona Ellsworth Lytle of Kalispell, and Betty Spence of Tacoma; one nephew, Jason Moothart, and wife, Drena, and their children; Seth and Jillian, of Libby; also one niece, Amanda Moothart, of Lakeside; and many special friends.
A celebration of life for Joseph M. Cox will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Kalispell.
The family suggests memorials be given in his name to: Kidsports Inc., P.O. Box 1205, Kalispell, MT 59901; Healing Arts Project, c/o Libby Moothart, P.O. Box 43, Lakeside, MT 59922; or West Shore Food Bank, P.O. Box 582, Lakeside, MT 59922.
Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for Joe's family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and sign Joe's guest book.