Joe Duane Fewkes

Joe Duane Fewkes, 65, of New Philadelphia, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, May 6, 2017 surrounded by his loving family after a two year courageous battle against cancer. He was the second son of Charles Frederick Fewkes and Alta Mae Dill. Joe was born in Norwalk, Calif., on Jan. 17, 1952. He was employed and retired from Consolidated Coal Company and was a member of the United Mine Workers Association. He had a passion and love of motorcycles and cars which started at a young age. He enjoyed spending time talking with and helping his neighbors, shooting at the Tusco Rifle Range, fellowship at the Elks Lodge with family and friends, hunting, fishing, woodworking, and riding his Harley. He spent seven years of his retirement in Springfield, Calif., where he volunteered for various non-profits. The one thing he enjoyed the most was the Boy Scouts Pack and Troop 137. His latest project was starting to restore his father's 1942 Willy's Jeep that he drove while serving in World War II. Joe was very patriotic and did not take his freedom for granted. He expressed a deep love for his family as well as his country. He will be dearly missed by his family, neighbors, and friends. In addition to his mother, Joe is survived by his daughter, Amy (Kyle) Courtwright of Atwood Lake; his son, Joey (Vicky) Fewkes of Dellroy; his brother, Glen Fewkes of Bentonville, Ark.; and two grandsons, Tyler and Taylor Fewkes. He is preceded in death by his father. Visitation will be held Thursday, May 11, 2017 from 5-7 p.m. in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia. A service celebrating Joe's life will follow in the funeral home's chapel with Pastor Brian Flood officiating. Following the service the family will be hosting a meal at the Elks Lodge in New Philadelphia. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Joe's memory may be directed to Community Hospice, 716 Commercial Avenue, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663. Those wishing to do so may send the family a personal condolence and light a candle in remembrance of Joe by visiting the funeral home website, www.geibcares.com.