Joseph E. Pope, 75, died on Sunday, March 16, 2014, at 6 p.m. at Richland Manor Nursing Home, Bluffton.

He was born on Dec. 22, 1938, in Dunkirk, Ohio, to William and Nellie (Gillen) Pope and they preceded him in death. On April 17, 1965 he married Bonnie Lou Zurcher and she survives in Ada.

He retired from Ford Motor Company of Lima, after working for 32 years. He was a member of the UAW Union #1219.

Surviving are four sons: Daniel Pope of Ada, Joey (Linda) Pope of Ada, Johnny Pope of Missouri and Bradley Pope of Ada; a daughter, Tammy (Bill) Downing of Findlay; three step sons: Michael (Carol) Sumney of Lima, Mark (Donita) Sumney of Sarasota, Fla., and Anthony "Rowdy" Sumney of Ada; two step daughters: Judy (John) Daily of Bluffton and Tracy (Jerry) Boyer of Lima; several grandchildren and several great grandchildren; a brother: James (Mary) Pope of Alger

He was preceded in death by three brothers: Raymond Pope, Richard Pope and William Pope; two sisters: Mary Shepherd and Lucille Newland.

Funeral services will begin at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 20, at Hanson-Neely Funeral Home, Ada with Pastor Jack Duffy officiating. It was his request to be cremated following the services.

Friends may call from 5-8 p.m. on Wednesday, March 19, at Hanson-Neely Funeral Home, Ada and one hour prior to the service at the funeral home on Thursday.
Memorial contributions may be made to Richland Manor Nursing Home, Bluffton.