Joel's daughter Marie let me know today (12-16-09) that Joel passed away on Monday, December 14, 2009. Have asked her to send me a copy of his obituary when it's available so I can include it here. Jim Roof

Marie was kind enough to send me the mortuary's link [www.healymortuary.com] today (12-17-09) which contained the following information:

Joel Allen Muma, Sr.

May 18-1942 - December 14, 2009

Joel Allen Muma Sr. of Gonzales passed in his home Monday, December 14. He was born on May 18, 1942 in Richmond, California to parents, Woodrow and Helen Muma. He is survived by his wife, Frances Muma, his three children, John Michael McPherson, Joel Allen Muma, Jr., and Elizabeth Marie Muma-Cordone, as well as his loving siblings, Greg Muma, Mayreen Longwell, and Lynn Hutchinson.

Joel was an Army Specialist E5 during the Vietnam War, where he was stationed with the 162nd Assault Helicopter Co. at Phouc Vinh. From May 1967 to May 1968 he actively participated in more than twenty-five aerial missions over hostile territory in support of counterinsurgency operations. He received the Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and Purple Heart. After serving in Vietnam for one year, he was stationed in Ford Ord, CA.

Joel and his family have resided in the City of Gonzales for more than twenty years. He acted as a "behind the scenes" volunteer for various community events (more for brownie points from his wife than anything else) by painting and building and just about anything else Frances asked.

He was a devoted husband, loving father, and the sincerest of friends.

VISITATION

Sunday December 20, 2009, 1pm - 5pm at Healey Mortuary.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE

Sunday December 20, 2009, 2pm at Healy Mortuary

BURIAL OF CREMAINS

Gonzales District Cemetery

[Note; the website listed above includes a Guestbook link where thoughts and memories about Joel can be shared.]