Joseph W. Maendel

Joseph W. Maendel, 81, of Forest River Colony, Fordville, ND,
passed away peacefully at home on Dec. 29, 2015. Joseph was born on Jan. 11, 1934 at Rosedale Colony, Elie, MB, to Joseph and Mary Maendel. At age 10 he moved with his family to New Rosedale Colony, Portage la Prairie, MB. After four years his family again moved to a new colony, (Forest River) where he resided till his passing. In 1954, Joe Jr. (as he was known) married Rachel Maendel also from this colony. They shared life together for 61 years and were blessed with five children: Rita (Martin Stahl), Frieda, (Kenny Gross), Betty (Joey Kleinsasser) Ernie (Sharon Waldner) and Amy (Darrel Gross).
Joseph served the colony as farm manager for over 15 years. He was elected to the ministry in 1978, serving the community for over 35 years. Joseph and Rachel have 26 grandchildren and 31 great-grandchildren. Joseph is survived by four brothers and six sisters. He was predeceased by his parents and three sisters.

Special thanks to Altru hospice care for their kind and caring services.

The funeral and internment will take place 2 p.m. Jan. 2 at Forest River Colony.