Obituary of Joseph Kortman

JOSEPH "JOE" KORTMAN June 20, 1918 ~ November 25, 2014 "Joe will be remembered by his family as a man of integrity and faith. He was often known for his optimism and humor." Joseph "Joe" Marvin Kortman passed away peacefully on November 25, 2014 at the age of 96 in Vancouver, WA. Joe was born June, 20th, 1918 in Vancouver, where he lived most of his life. He graduated from Vancouver High School in 1938 and attended Clark Jr. College, Multnomah Radio School and Albany College (Lewis & Clark); studying mathematics, electronics and broadcasting. Duty called Joe after World War II began with Joe enlisting in the U.S. Army Air Corp where he was trained as a navigator and pilot. He flew fifty combat missions in China Burma India Theater. Joe attained the rank of Captain by the end of WW II. Soon after, Joe joined the U.S. Air Force as a Reservist and was soon called into active duty during the Korean Conflict. He was stationed in Laon, France as Commanding Officer of the Communications Squadron of the 126th Bombardment Wing. He later was promoted to the rank of Major. Joe married his high school sweetheart, Margaret Fox, in February of 1939. They had 3 daughters, Julie, Jo and Heidi. Margaret passed away in January of 1981 after a brief illness. After Margaret's passing, Joe married Jean Pierce, a widow with 4 grown sons: Gary, Glen, Steve and Craig. Joe and Jean spent 33 very happy years together, enjoying their family, friends, church fellowship, and much traveling. Joe was a life-long learner and one of his passions was electronic design. Three of his circuit designs have U.S. Patents. Turning 90 didn't slow him down too much as he taught an electronics class, started writing a book about electrical theory, and created computer generated cartoon stories about his friends at a Senior Living Facility. These and more pursuits kept him young in spirit. Joe is survived by his wife, Jean; daughters, Jo (Larry) and Heidi (Jim); sons, Gary (Judy), Glen (Sue), Steve (Ruth), and Craig (Signe); as well as numerous grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Margaret; daughter, Julie; brother, Herb; and sister, Marie. There will be a Memorial Service honoring Joe on Sat., Dec. 13th at 10 a.m. at the Vancouver Church of God at 3300 NE 78th St., Vancouver, WA 98665. The service will be held in room 120 of the church. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the Vancouver Church of God's Local Missions Fund at the address provided above or at this link: Kortman Memorial Fund. Please sign his guest book at: www.columbian.com/obits.