Joe Gostola lived a long, wonderful life. He celebrated his 100th birthday this year, which was a magnificent accomplishment for him to achieve. Born in LaPorte, Indiana, Joe moved to Mt. Pleasant at a young age. He worked with his father on the family farm. On November 22, 1945, Joe married the love of his life, Lillian Rhode, and in time, they became the proud parents of three children. Joe's genuine love of people and natural ability to make conversation, led him into the insurance business. Many of his clients became life-long friends. He sold insurance policies well into his 80's. Country music was his greatest passion and became the center of his personal life. He learned his musical talent from his father. At the early age of 12, Joe played the accordion and later expanded his musical gifts to singing and playing the banjo, which he did from more than 80 years. He showed an immense love for his family and they feel very blessed that Joe was a part of their lives for so long. Joe was an inspiration to all who knew him. He will be missed every single day.

Joe was preceded in death by his wife Lillian, sister Lucile Joslen, and his grandson Paul Gostola. Joe is survived by: his daughter Bonne (Jerry) Loucks, son Michael (Patty) Gostola, and daughter Dixie Gostola; three treasured grandchildren, Kathy (Steve) Dalessandro, Kevin Loucks (Holly Jenks), and Joe (Candy) Gostola; four great grandchildren; one sister, Frances Bollman; one niece; two nephews, cousins, as well as, many great and great-great nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Friday, December 28, 2018, from 10 to 11 a.m. at Sacred Heart Church, 302 S. Kinney Ave., Mt. Pleasant. Mass will be immediately following at 11 a.m. The family would like to thank Medilodge of Mt. Pleasant for their kind, compassionate, and loving care of their father. They treated Joe like family. If desired, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Medilodge of Mt. Pleasant.