AMES, Joseph Michael "Joe" - b. February 17, 1939 - d. June 18, 2018

[patyrn]

Joseph Michael "Joe" Ames, 79, passed away June 18, 2018 in Wichita, Kansas.  He was born February 17, 1939 in Winfield, Kansas, the son of Arthur Mahlon Ames and Juanita Irene (Hodge) Ames.

Joe graduated from Emporia State University in 1973 with a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration.  He started his career with Boeing in Wichita, Kansas, but his true calling was with the State of Kansas as a Social Worker, devoting 30 years of service.

Joe had a love of music and singing.  He was the worship leader at the United Methodist Church for numerous years and continued his singing at Howard Twilight Manor and Pleasant Valley Manor on a weekly basis.  He provided so much joy to the residents and staff.

Joe was a man who never knew a stranger and always had a smile on his face.  He overcame great obstacles in his life and continued to always have a sweet spirit about him.  He was a blessing to all those he came in contact with.  He was a very proud father and grandfather and never failed to always remind them how proud he was.  The legacy he leaves behind will always be remembered and cherished.

Joe is survived by his wife, Sharon Higley Ames of the home in Moline, Kansas; his daughter, Julie Ames McElroy; his son, Michael Ames; granddaughters, Alexa McElroy, Amanda McElroy Stoafer, Ashlynn McElroy, and Ciera Ames Wilson; grandson, Jake Ames; great-grandchildren, Elijah Rodriquez, Ezra McElroy, and Gracie McElroy.  He is preceded in death by his parents, Arthur Mahlon "Skeet" and Juanita Irene Ames,  and his brothers, Robert "Bob" Ames and Mahlon "Red" Ames.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 21, 2018 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Countryside Funeral Home in Howard, Kansas.  Funeral services will be held Friday, June 22, 2018 at 11:00 .m. at the funeral home with Pastor Susan Galvan officiating.  Burial will follow in Moline City Cemetery in Moline, Kansas.  Online condolences may be left for the family at www.countrysidefh.com.  Memorials have been suggested to either the Moline United Methodist Church or the Pleasant Valley Nursing Home and may be left with or mailed to Countryside Funeral Home, 206 E. Washington, Howard, Kansas 67349 which is entrusted with service arrangements.

(taken from the Countryside Funeral Home website)