Joseph E. Green, 87

On March 24,1934, Joseph E. Green entered our world in Clayton, New Mexico, and his 87-year journey began. He passed with his wife Dede by his side at their home in Polson on Jan. 6, 2022. At age 16 he joined the Marines and began a distinguished military career. He later served in the U.S. Navy as well. He served in Korea from 1950 to 1953 and fought in the Battle of Inchon. He went on to serve in Vietnam while stationed in Japan. As chief of the boat, he served on numerous submarines, barely surviving a disaster while in Korea. Joe attended submarine school in Groton, Connecticut, and sonar school in Key West, Florida, retiring from military service in 1973. He drove truck for several companies before starting his own successful business.

In 1953 Joe married Mary Danette (Smith) Green. To this union four children were born, Cynthia, Jeffrey, Jenifer and Lisa. When Joe stopped driving truck, they spent summers in Polson and winters in Parker, Arizona. On Oct. 29, 2007, just two days shy of their 54th wedding anniversary, Mary passed.

Joe loved riding his motorcycle and, in 2010, through his association with (Dede’s daughter) Anita and the Honda shop in Kalispell, he met his second love. Melody “Dede” and Joe spent his final years together enjoying everything life had to offer. They traveled on Joe’s trike at every opportunity and generously supported the American Legion of Montana, the Legion Riders, and Mission Valley Elks Lodge 1695. Joe and Dede exchanged wedding vows on Jan. 25, 2020, in Polson.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Mary, infant daughter Lisa, and stepsons Allen Saverud and Brian Saverud.

He is survived by his wife Dede, stepdaughter Anita Schrade (Dan) of Kalispell, stepson Wayne (Cheryl) Saverud of Washington, daughters Cynthia (Richard) White of Florida, Jennifer Short of New Mexico, and son Jeffrey (Allison) Green of Florida. In addition, Joe is survived by 12 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

Per his request, no services are planned. Cremation has taken place.

Memorials may be made to Mission Valley Elks Lodge 1695, 512 Main St., Polson, MT 59860.

Joe loved a good picnic. Hotdogs and ice cream will be served on Saturday, Jan. 15, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Elks Lodge in Polson. Dede invites you to join her to celebrate this great man’s life.