Joseph Richard Eszes

Lieutenant Colonel, USA, (Retired), Joseph Richard Eszes died peacefully in Thousand Oaks, California on February 10, 2015. Colonel Eszes was 96 years old, born in Mansfield, Ohio on October 25, 1918. He is survived by his wife of 73 years, Rachel D Eszes, his son Colonel, USA, (Retired ) Joseph W Eszes, daughters Mary Eszes Semenza , Victoria Suzanne Van Winkle and brother Frederick W. Eszes of Baltimore, Maryland. Colonel Eszes had five grandchildren and one great grandson. Two children, Robert L Eszes and Rebecca Ann Eszes preceded him in death.

Colonel Eszes, a decorated career soldier of 25 years, was an Army Bomb Disposal Officer, serving in Italy during World War II and during the Korean War. He was a two time Purple Heart recipient, twice wounded, in both WWII and Korea. Colonel Eszes retired from active duty in 1965 and began a second career, serving as a bank official for 24 years.

Funeral services are scheduled at Olivewood Memorial Park, 3300 Central Avenue, Riverside California on Thursday, February 19, 2015 at 1PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wounded Warriors Foundation.