Joseph "Joe" Jack Ditchen has gone home to be with his Lord and savior having died peacefully at the age of 100 with his children by his side on February 25, 2019. Joe was born May 18th, 1918 to Rose and Franz Ditchen in the North Howell area of Silverton, Oregon and was the 6th of 8 children.

Dad proudly served in the US Army and was stationed in New Guinea during World War II. Upon returning home he married Sarah Gerig on October 10th 1945. They established their family homestead in the Hazelgreen Road area of Salem, Oregon where they remained married for 71 years. Joe was a long-time attendee of Salem First Church of the Nazarene for over 40 years where he enjoyed being an usher. Dad spent his entire working life doing what he loved, driving tractor and running farm equipment until the age of 95.

Joe was preceded in death by his wife, Sarah, his parents, Rose and Franz Ditchen, and all his siblings to be the last remaining family member of his generation. Joe is loved by his surviving three children: son, Jerry (Evelyn), son, Denny (Linda), and daughter, Sandie Bagdriwicz (Paul); his five grandchildren: Todd Ditchen (Jenn), Darcy McCulloch (Jeff), Dustin Ditchen (Stacey), Joey Bagdriwicz, and Sarah Bagdriwicz; five great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews along with his extended farming and church families; and countless friends.

Joe's family extends their thanks and gratitude to Lancaster Village and staff, with special appreciation to Serenity Hospice for their care and support of our father. There will be a celebration of life at Salem First Church of the Nazarene, Wednesday, March 6th at 11:00 am. Arrangements are being handled by Unger Funeral Chapel in Silverton, Oregon and interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making a donation in Joe's name to Salem First Church of the Nazarene or Serenity Hospice.