Joe M. Dechant, 88, of Brighton, passed away Nov. 5, 2013. at his home. Born Dec. 11, 1924, in Ellis, Kan., to Pete and Mary (Kessler) Dechant, he served in the U.S. Army from 1945 to 1946 as Tank Driver.
    Joe later married Marcella Weaver on April 25, 1950. He attended St. Augustine Catholic Church and was a member of the Knights of Columbus and the VFW.
    Joe is survived by his children, Kathy Goudy and Carol Dechant; three grandchildren, Jim Goudy, Pam Mang and Jennifer Griego; six great-grandchildren, Steven Mang, Chris Mang, Chantelle Griego, Gage Griego, Lorisa Leipold and Amelia Leipold.
    He was preceded in death by his wife, Marcella, and daughter, Nancy Maple.
    A Rosary Service was held Monday, Nov. 11, 2013, at Tabor-Rice Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial was Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2013, at St. Augustine Catholic Church. Interment followed at Elmwood Cemetery.
    Tabor-Rice Funeral Home handled the arrangements.