Joseph George Meeuwsen, 85, De Pere went home to be with the Lord on May 15 after a severe fall that resulted in a traumatic brain injury. He was born August 29, 1926, to Nellie and Joseph Meeuwsen. On June 6, 1948 he married Beverly Anderson. Joe served in the US Navy during World War II. He was a pitcher for the Northern Lights and a well-known basketball player and referee throughout Wisconsin. A nature lover and hunter, Joe just enjoyed a day of turkey hunting with his son last week! Survivors include his wife Beverly Meeuwsen; his 2 daughters, Terry Meeuwsen Friedrich and her husband, Andy. Judie Meeuwsen Harvey and her husband, Jim. His 2 sons, Joe Meeuwsen and his wife, Carrie. Peter Meeuwsen and special family friend, Beth Herlasch. Joe was "Grandpa Joe" to 16 grandchildren: Drew, Tory, JP, Tyler, Alysa, Zoya, and Sophia Friedrich; Jennifer and Justin Harvey; Megan, John, Lexie, Jake, Boris, Peter, and Rhiannon Meeuwsen. 1 sister, Ruth Bertrand; and 1 sister-in-law, Chris Berken; and long-time family friend, and close as a brother, Jim "Jake" Jacobsen. He is preceded in death by his parents, his step father Nick Berken, whom he thought of as his own dad. His sister, Evelyn Klarkowski, and brother, Cy Berken. Friends may call at RYAN FUNERAL HOME 305 N. Tenth Street De Pere from 5 8pm Friday. Visitation will continue after 12:30pm Saturday May 19, 2012 at Christ Alone Church 505 East Allouez Ave. Green Bay until time of service at 1:30pm with Rev. Dr. Ted Tromble officiating. Inurnment will take place in Greenwood Cemetery. The family would like to thank the staff at St. Vincent's 6th floor ICU, the staff at Unity Hospice, and Dr. Amy James and her associate, Helen Wellins. Your care and concern meant so much to our family. Please go to www.ryanfh.com to send online condolences to the family.