Joseph Patrick Dilger

Joseph Patrick Dilger, age 66 of Yankton, SD passed away Thursday, November 13, 2014 at the Avera Sacred Heart Hospital, Yankton, SD. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 AM, Friday, November 21, 2014 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Yankton, SD with Rev. Robert Wullweber officiating. Burial will be in the Sacred Heart Cemetery, Yankton, SD. Visitations will begin at 5:00 PM, Thursday, November 20, 2014 at the Opsahl-Kostel Funeral Home & Crematory, Yankton, SD with a Scripture service at 7:00 PM. Visitations will resume one hour prior to the service at the church.

Joseph was born March 1, 1948 in Alhambra, CA to Dr. Francis and Marilyn (Jaycox) Dilger. Joe spent most of his time on his small farm in Yankton with his 4 dogs. He worked at Truck and Trailer for about 5 years and worked until he was 65 years old.

Joseph enjoyed many things in life. His favorite things to do was to be in the wild area of the Jim River, walking his dogs and talking to his best friend, Jasmine Lynn Mortensen. Most of his life he did many things. He liked to take pictures and to work with jewelry. He also did mechanics and welding, etc. Joe was an avid bike rider and was well known by the community.

Joe's wishes a month ago while he was in Yankton Care Center, was to be at his own home with his family and friends. Jasmine did a lot of running, but she did give him his wishes; a small apartment at 906 E. 13th Street in Yankton, SD for him to reside. Jasmine prepared meals and took care of Joe. He took great pride in his 2 dogs, Joey and Jr. When it became too hard for him to care for them, he gave them to a rescue place. We love you so much Joe. We will never forget you. God bless.

Joe is survived by his sister, Mary Ann Dilger of Chicago, IL; brother, Tom Dilger of Dixon, IL; cousin, Kathy Gastazoro of Yankton, SD; nephew, Michael Dilger of New York City, NY; and his best friend, Jasmine Lynn Mortensen of Yankton, SD.

He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, Bozana Kolda and Dr. Frank Dilger, DDS and aunt, Mark Kay D. Gastazoro.