Joseph Edward ''Papa Joe'' Runion

Runion, Joseph Edward “Papa Joe”, age 58 of Knoxville, died Saturday, February 12, 2005, at his home. He was born June 18, 1946 to Raymond and Edith Runion of Mascot, TN. He attended Carter High School and after high school, he enlisted in the United States Navy at age 17. He served in Vietnam, was wounded and was a POW. He received 2 Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star. He was an OTR truck driver for 35 years, retiring in 2004 due to ill health. Mr. Runion was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Elizabeth Raye McCampbell and infant brother, Raymond Runion, Jr. Survivors include his wife, Rochelle; son and daughter-in-law, Scott and Tammy Runion; daughter, Melissa VanGuilder; four grandchildren, Timothy, and Nicholas Runion and Michelle VanGuilder; step son, Ernie Sandidge and step granddaughter, Elizabeth Lincoln. Family and friends will meet at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday at the TN Veterans Cemetery in Knoxville for a graveside service with Rev. Walter Willis and Chaplain Phil Gross officiating. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to the American Red Cross, 6921 Middlebrook Pike, Knoxville, TN 37909 or Disabled American Veterans, 2600 Holbrook Drive, Knoxville, TN 37918. McCammon-Ammons-Click Funeral Home, Maryville in charge 982-6812 www.mccammonammonsclick.com