Joe Lynn Birkenfeld, age 88, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Saturday, July 25, 2026, in Nazareth Texas
Joe was born on April 22, 1938, in Knox County, Texas, to Christopher Birkenfeld and Rose (Decker) Birkenfeld. At the age of 10, he moved with his family to Nazareth, Texas, the community he would call home for the rest of his life.
Joe proudly served his country in the United States Army, enlisting on September 12, 1961, and was honorably discharged on August 20, 1963, serving as a medic specialist and a decorated Army rifle marksman. He continued to serve with the Army Reserves until 1967.
On July 15, 1965, Joe married Mary Lou (Lange) Birkenfeld in Nazareth, Texas. He spent his life farming and ranching and was also a dedicated business owner, operating Joe's Service Center, Joe's Beer and Wine, and Country Liquor.
A lifetime member of Holy Family Catholic Church, Joe's faith was an important part of his life. He will be remembered with love and respect for his devotion to his family, his service to his country, his strong work ethic, and the many ways he contributed to his community.
Those left to cherish his memory are his children, Anne Acker (Dwayne) of Nazareth, Texas, Robert Birkenfeld of Nazareth, Texas, Dale Birkenfeld (Rebecca) of Brownwood, Texas, Wayne Birkenfeld, (Oksana) of Nazareth, Texas, Joyce Lynn Nelson of North Richland Hills, Texas and Dennis Birkenfeld (Kayla) of Nazareth, Texas, brother, Leslie Birkenfeld, sister, Stephanne Dobmeier and husband Allen along with 10 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren
Joe Lynn is preceded in death by his wife, Mary Lou Birkenfeld, brothers, Clarence Birkenfeld, Carol Birkenfeld, Bryan Birkenfeld, and Ronald Birkenfeld, sister, Alverna Schacher, along with grandson, Kyler Clark and great-grandson, Luke Hittson.