Joseph Frank Pimkowski

Joseph Frank Pimkowski, age 70, passed away on Monday, February 12, 2024 in Oceanside.  He was born in Canajoharie, New York on February 15, 1953 to Walter and Ruth Pimkowski.  He had 2 brothers and 2 sisters names Ron, John, Norma and Polly respectively.  He was raised there, and moved to Arizona with his mother when he was a teenager.  He then joined the Marine Corps on October 1, 1970, moving to Camp Pendleton and starting basic training whilst meeting his future wife, Barbara Fenton. They met in 1971, while Joe was stationed there and still maintained their relationship while deployed to Vietnam in 1972.  Upon coming back from his tour, he promptly married Barbara on Feb 23rd 1973, in Phoenix, Arizona.  

Being a marine was one of Joe's biggest and most rewarding challenges.  He was the epitome of a brother in arms with his fellow Devil Dogs in Vietnam.  He came back with many accolades including a Purple Heart, a Rifle Marksman Badge, a National Defense Service Medal, and a Vietnam Service medal.  He was later honorably discharged from the Marines after 3 years on September 25, 1973.    

As you know, living in California is not a cheap endeavor, therefore each spouse worked. While his wife was in banking during the day, Joe would work nights as a machinist, bounty hunter and tow truck driver.  They bought a lovely house in 1979 in Vista, CA with the intention of starting a family.  In the meantime to fill the house with children's laughter, they opened their house up to children of need and fostered for years.  Finally, 5 years later, their wish of their own child came true in the form of a bouncing baby boy, Joey.  They continued to share their love between Joey and his foster sisters for a decade. Joe continued his desire to help others over the next 30 years where he would welcome people of all walks of life into their home to help in any way they can.  Unfortunately, on December 27, 2004, Barbara passed away.  At least he had a home filled with many people to help him cope.

Joe had many pastimes, including camping, playing drums and riding his motor cycle.  In the duration of his life, he was part of 2 motor cycle clubs: the Booze Fighters and the Geezers.  He loved hosting parties and get togethers with his fellow club members.  Many a good times were had.  He continued this tradition of playing host all the way up to Christmas of this past year.  If there was a holiday, any holiday, Joe had a party with good food, great music, a fire pit and any friends and family that wanted to join.  Joe ultimately loved being surrounded by people.  

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