Joseph Richard Funk, AF5D, 83, of Robinson, Texas passed away, Thursday, September 27, 2012 at his home. Joseph was born January 16, 1929 in Ironton, Missouri to Oscar and Jewell Funk. He graduated from Esther High School in 1947 and received a teaching certificate from Flat River Junior College.
He served as a Corporal radio relay operator in the US Army during the Korean War during which he received the Korean Service Medal with two bronze service stars and the United Nations Service Medal. Upon returning from the service he continued his education in electronics and communication equipment in Port Arthur, Texas. On May 25, 1957 he married Ruby Gene Culpepper in San Antonio, Texas. He was employed by Missouri Pacific Railroad later known as Union Pacific Railroad as a communications maintainer.
He enjoyed his hobby of being an Amateur Radio Operator for over 60 years under the call letters of AF5D. He shared his knowledge and love of radio operations by helping many young and old to pass their tests to become amateur radio operators, including his wife, sister in-law and sons. He had a fascination with radios, electronics and computers that helped him form many friendships that spanned out across the world. He enjoyed traveling back to visit with his friends and family in his birthplace known as Funk Branch as often as was possible for their reunions.
He is survived by his wife of 55 years, his three children; Kathryn Funk-Baxter (Steve) of Corpus Christi, Texas, Keith Richard Funk (Kim) of San Antonio and Karl Matthew Funk (Crystal) of Robinson, Texas; six grandchildren and one great granddaughter. He is proceeding in death by his parents and only brother Carl Franklin Funk.
