Joseph Frederick Metzendorf, 87, formerly of 3 Laurel Way, Old Saybrook, died on June 29 at Columbia St. Mary’s Hospital, Mequon, Wisconsin. He was born on January 10, 1927, in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, New York, the son of Otto and Mary O’Shea Metzendorf.

He was a graduate of the Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn with a degree in mechanical engineering. During WWII he served with the U.S. Navy in the Pacific theatre. He retired from Combustion Engineering, Windsor, after 38 years. His prior employment was with Arabian American Oil Company in New York City. He was a life member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Sampson WWII Veterans, and the B.P.O.E. (Elks).

He was predeceased by his daughter Christine Ann. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Eleanor (Gonser); his sons Joseph, Mark, and Neal; his daughters-in-law Jody (Helzer), Donna (Kolak), and Joan (Kerr); and his grandchildren Desiree, Sarah, Mary Ellen, Mikaela, Ann Marie, Daniel, Kevin, and Stephanie.

Joe had a great love for Old Saybrook, and took great pride with his volunteer work in the community. One of his favorite projects was the development of the visitor’s center at the top of Main Street.

Family and friends may gather on July 4 from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. for visitation at Swan Funeral Home, 1224 Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook (860) 388-4106. There will be continued visitation on July 5 from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. at Swan Funeral Home, followed by a Mass of Christian burial at 11 a.m. at St. Johns Catholic Church, 161 Main St., Old Saybrook (860) 388-3787. Interment will immediately follow Mass at Alder Brook Cemetery, 387 Boston St., Guilford.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675,  www.woundedwarriorproject.org. Please visit www.swanfuneralhomeoldsaybrook.com for online tributes and condolences.