Joe Frank Funches

Joe Frank Funches, beloved father, brother and friend transitioned unexpectedly on July 28, 2022 at the long lived age of 82.  Born on January 12, 1940 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, as the third child, he spent the first 16 years of his life with Mother, Opal D., Father Martin and his 5 surviving siblings, Otis, Rosetta, Georgetta, Walter and Larry.  Having lived a lively and rich childhood in the city, Joe decided to leave by enlisting in the United States Air Force. He became a stellar Air Force jet mechanic stationed at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, until he was honorably discharged December of 1960. 

Joe later ended up in Los Angeles, California, studying at Los Angeles City College where he met and married Tryphenia.  This union of souls produced his surviving children Joseph, Tryphenia and Martin.  They all were comfortably nestled in Altadena, CA.  Joe had an interesting career having worked in various places; most notably at the California Department of Water Resources and Caltrans as a civil engineer until he retired.  Joe moved to the City of San Bernardino to buy his then 3rd home in 2013.  Joe purchased his 4th and final home in 2021 also in San Bernardino where he lived in comfort and enjoyment of his life; forever independent. 

Joe had a terrific sense of humor, loved people and was very loquacious and not prone to hyperbole; just the facts.  One could spend hours listening to and speaking with Joe over coffee or a bite to eat as he was a great storyteller, history purveyor and a student of law.  His personal collection of books included the law (one of his most favorite subjects and fields of study), history, engineering, economics, etc.  He always offered a hand when he could.

Joe is survived by not only his siblings and children, but also by several nieces and nephews and his grandchildren Ashley, Joseph Jr, Ezekiel, Valerie, Jessica and Samuel.  A new addition to the family is expected from Ashley in December, thus making Joe a great grandfather.