Joe Vila's Obituary
From the halls of Montezuma to the shores of Tripoli, having fought his country's battle, World War II veteran and West Tampa native, Joe Vila, 88, succumbed to his own personal battle against Alzheimer's/Dementia and the lasting effects of war on March 14, 2012. Joe is survived by his devoted, loving wife of 66 years, Olga Quelle Vila; three daughters, Elaine Vila and twins Lorain Murias and Susan Vila; 6 grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren; 2 great great grandchildren; and expansive extended family. Joe served as a U.S. Marine in the South Pacific and Guadalcanal where he was wounded in combat. He comes from a family of 7 sisters and 6 brothers. All of Joe's brothers also served and survived military service, thus, having Vila Brothers Park named after them. Eternal and heartfelt gratitude for the love and support of his wife, daughters and family. A special thank you to Congresswoman Kathy Castor and Tery Sanchez for their invaluable assistance and to the excellent staff, doctors, and nurses at the James A. Haley Veteran's Hospital and Haley's Cove Community Living Center. A memorial service will be held Sunday, March 18th from 4 - 6pm at Boza & Roel Funeral Home at 4730 N. Armenia Ave. and a military honors funeral will be held at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell on Monday, March 19th at 11am. In lieu of flowers please make a contribution to James A. Haley Veteran's Hospital or Haley's Cove Community Living Center or any veterans' organization.
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