Joseph Urban Lechtenberg

JOSEPH URBAN LECHTENBERG, a lifelong resident of Ponca City and nearby Osage County, passed on July 5, 2018.  He was 92. 

Joe was born September 18, 1926 to Urban and Rosa Lechtenberg in Osage County.   His childhood was an active life of farming and involvement in the St. Mary’s Church and School.  During his last year of school, he met Beth Opitz, his future wife.  Thereafter, they were married in Wichita Falls, Texas in 1945 just before Joe was deployed overseas during World War II. 

Joe’s service in the Air Force included his tour of duty in the Philippines protecting the camps.  He was very proud of his service and that of his three brothers (Anthony, John and Leo).  All four siblings served the United States during WWII and returned home safely to their families.     

Joe’s passions included his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  He relished in his years as a father and grandparent.  Joe’s family often comments that he was their official historian because he was ever present with his camera in tow, snapping pictures while maintaining meticulous albums and genealogy records. Throughout his life, Joe remained dedicated to his St. Mary’s Church family and the Knights of Columbus as well.  Always willing and able to help those in need, Joe was a selfless friend to many.  He was known for his uplifting presence, greeting everyone with a big smile and hearty laugh.  Joe found much happiness outdoors, enjoying many activities including gardening, hunting/shooting but especially crappie fishing.   

Joe’s working years included employment in the refinery and in the R&D Lab in Ponca City.  This facility was first owned by Cities Service and later became Gulf, Sequoia and Conoco.

Joe was predeceased by Beth, his wife of more than seventy years.  He is survived by daughter, Joy Irons of Plano Texas; Mike Lechtenberg of Carrollton Texas and Mark Lechtenberg of Ponca City Oklahoma.  Daughter Judy Weichert predeceased the family in 1984.  Joe is also survived by five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.  He has several nephews and a niece.  Joe was the last member of his generation of the Lechtenberg Family.

The funeral mass celebrating his life will be at St Mary’s on Monday, July 16, 2018 at 10 am.  You are most welcome to attend.  In lieu of flowers, a special donation can be made to the American Diabetes Association at 2451 Crystal Drive, Suite 900; Arlington, VA  22202 or via phone at 1 800-342-2383. 

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