A Memorial Service will be planned for a later date.

Condolences may be sent in care of Hill & Son Funeral Home.

Joseph William Valadez, 50, was born November 17, 1960 in Springfield, Missouri. He passed away March 26, 2011 at the Appleton City Manor Nursing Home in Appleton City, Missouri.

Joe spent most of his youth in Springfield where he graduated from high school before joining the U.S. Marine Corp. He was honorably discharged after two years of service. Joe drove a cab for several years after returning to Springfield. He had lived in several other places throughout the remainder of his life, most recently with his mother and stepfather at their home near Clinton, Missouri as they cared for him during his struggle with cancer.

Joe was a friendly man, easily liked by those who he came in contact with. He enjoyed life and lived every minute to the fullest.

Survivors include his mother and stepfather Pat and Steve Coban of Clinton, Missouri; three siblings, John Merrifield and wife Janet of Clinton, Missouri, Julie Palmer of Springfield, Missouri and Johnnie Applegate of Springfield, Missouri; and two children, Josh and Tabitha both of Jackson, Missouri. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.