Joseph "Joe" R. Reithmeier

Joseph "Joe" R. Reithmeier, age 96, of Toledo, Ohio, passed away peacefully on September 29, 2024. Born in Toledo on March 20, 1928, Joe's life journey was marked by resilience and a profound love for animals.

At the young age of three, Joe was relocated to Germany, where he faced the challenges of being an American child during a tumultuous time under the Nazi Regime. After spending years there, he returned on his own to the United States at the age of 20 with only $20 in his pocket, making his way back to Toledo to reunite with his aunt. Within 6 months of returning, Joe was drafted into the U.S. Army, serving valiantly in Korea.

Following his military service, Joe embarked on a path as a veterinarian technician at Weaver's Animal Hospital in Perrysburg, where he truly found his passion. He was also the founder of the Reith Pet Cemetery on McCord Road and operated JR Grooming in Perrysburg. Joe's love for animals extended beyond his professional life; he created a home filled with a diverse array of animals, including exotic pets and birds. 

Joe is survived by his significant other of 21 years, Kathleen "Kathie" Link; his children, Pam (Kay Siegel) Reithmeier, Norman Reithmeier, and Paul (Michele) Reithmeier; grandchildren, Timothy Reithmeier, Joshua (Briana) Reithmeier, Nicole (Anthony) Mancuso, Dusty (Renee) Reithmeier, and Brandy (William) Szanyi; great-grandchildren, Nola, Ellie, Ivan, Teagan, Wyatt, Oliver, Cooper, Gavin, and 2 more on the way; honorary daughter, Wendy (Alex) Flesh and her children, Michael and Kathleen (Teddy). 

The family will receive guests on Monday, October 7, 2024 from 3:00pm until 8:00pm at Newcomer Funeral Home - West Sylvania Chapel (419-392-9500), 3655 King Rd, Toledo. 

To share a memory of Joe or to leave a special message for his family, please visit the Guestbook below.