ALBANY – Joe Book, age 96, Albany, died Sunday morning at The Waters of Muncie following an illness.  Born in Wheatcroft, KY on Oct. 31, 1919, he grew up in Kentucky and later moved to Indiana after serving in the military.  He was a U.S. Air Force veteran of World War II.  While in the military he spent time in Guam and received education in engineering.  Joe worked at the Wysor Building in Muncie and did repair work on the side.  Later, he worked at Ball State University where he became Superintendent of Housing; he retired there in 1982.  Following retirement he worked at the Muncie Y.W.C.A.  Over the years Joe belonged to the V.F.W., Kiwanis Club, and Master Gardeners.  He was also an active member of DeSoto United Methodist Church where he sang in the choir.

Survivors include his wife of forty-eight years, Norma C. Book; a step-son: Duane Schutter (wife: Linda), Muncie; a step-daughter: Carmen Ottinger (husband: Larry), Lebanon; a sister: Peggy Johnson, St. Louis, MO; two step grandchildren: Holly Allen (husband: Jamey) and Scott Ottinger; also, three step great-grandchildren: Alexcis Allen, Ashley Allen, and Alex Ottinger.

He is preceded in death by his parents and several siblings.

Services will be 12 p.m. Wednesday, August 3, 2016, at DeSoto United Methodist Church, with Pastor Frank Oakman officiating.  Burial will follow at Union Cemetery, DeSoto, with military services provided by Veterans of Delaware County Honor Guard.

Visiting hours will be held on Wednesday from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. at the church.

Memorials may be sent to DeSoto United Methodist Church, 6309 N. 500 E., Muncie, IN 47303.