Joseph W. Withers

Joseph William Withers age 88, died at his home on October 1, 2017 in Hilo, Hawaii formerly of Grand Rapids, MI.  Born in Chicago on July 15, 1929.  Joe graduated from Hirsch High in 1947, University of Arizona in 1951 and then served in the U.S. Army as 1st Lt. during the Korean War (1951-1954).  

Joe was co-founder of Belwith International Los Angeles, CA 1959, Grand Rapids, MI, group president of Babcock International/FKI including Belwith International, Faultless Caster in Evansville, IN, Keeler Brass Grand Rapids, Weber-Knapp and Chautauqua Hardware in Jamestown, NY, Faultless Nutting in South Dakota and Faultless Chair Control in Canada.  Joe retired in 1994 and moved to Hawaii.  He was preceded in death by his first wife Joanne O’Neill Withers, sisters Margaret and Suzy, and his brothers Jack and Robert.  Joe leaves behind his wife Phyllis of Hilo, HI, son Timothy (Patsy) Withers of Hailey, ID, daughter Kelley (William) Holzwarth of Ada, MI, stepdaughters Liann, Lisa and Sarah Ebesugawa.  

O’l Joe said he knew it was time to go and don’t cry for me as I truly have been blessed and have lived a long and bountiful life.  I did my best being fair and reasonable and may have made a dent...

If you wish to make a financial gift in Joe’s name, please send to: Hospice of Hilo c/o Brenda S Ho MS RN 1011 Waianuenue Avenue Hilo, Hi 96720.  Services will be held in Hilo, HI and a private family graveside service will be held at Graceland Memorial Park.  

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