Joseph H. Kress

Lt. Col. (Retired) Joseph H. Kress 3/25/28-1/10/23 Joseph Herbert Kress was born in Erie, Pennsylvania, the only child of the late Margaret Wingerter Kress and Joseph John Kress. After a few years of confirmed bachelorhood and a brief career in sales, he married the girl next door, the late Charlene Weber Kress, on October 26, 1957. Joe and Charlene traveled the world during his 31 years of service in the Air Force, including assignments in Missouri, England, Texas, Hawaii, Ohio and South Carolina. He served in both the Korean War and the Vietnam War, where he received the Bronze Star during the Tet Offensive. His awards also included the Meritorious Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm. His assignments included Assistant Deputy Commander for Logistics, Chief of Operations for the Defense Disposal Agency (Hawaii) for Southeast Asia, and other Chief of Supply assignments. He also commanded a Munitions Conventional and Special Weapons Squadron located at Alconbury, England. He retired in 1982 with the permanent rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He was a graduate of the Cathedral Preparatory School for Boys in Erie, PA, and received his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Gannon University. He and Charlene were founding members of St. Theresa the Little Flower Catholic Church in Summerville, and he was a devout adherent of the Catholic faith. He was also a founding member of the Dorchester Taxpayer Association and served on the Dorchester County School District Improvement Committee. Locally, he was well known for his letters to the editor of the Summerville Journal-Scene. Joe was devoted to caring for Charlene. At her passing 13 years ago, he continued to enjoy life and learn new pursuits. He joined Costco and became a first-time octogenarian chef, his specialties being wild salmon and lamb chops. He made strong drinks and entertained everyone with his life stories. He enjoyed McDonald’s biscuits and gravy, which reminded him of his wartime breakfasts, as well as ice cream and beer. He spent much of these days researching history and politics, reading, and writing informed letters to local papers. Additionally, he wrote for Newswithviews.com for ten years. He also enjoyed charcoal sketching, photography and swing dancing to big band music throughout his life. Joe is survived by his daughter, Leialana Lynne Kress of Austin, TX, and his son, Adrian Christopher Kress (Wendy) of Greenville, SC. Grandsons include his namesake, Joseph “Mason” Kress, who proudly carries the family name going back to Joe’s grandfather, and Patrick Mitchell Kress, who inherited Joe’s convivial personality. Joe is also survived by his best friends (and Adrian’s godparents), Bruce and Mary Ann Kreider, whom they met in England at Alconbury Air Force Base in the 1960’s. Joe’s personality filled a room, and our family, and he will be forever missed. A funeral mass will be held at St. Theresa The Little Flower Catholic Church (11001 Dorchester Road, Summerville) at 11:00 am on Saturday January 14th. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St Theresa the Little Flower Catholic Church in Summerville, SC.

Joseph H. Kress

March 25, 1928 - January 10, 2023