Joseph W. Veit

Wapakoneta

Joseph W. Veit, 79, died at 2:01 a.m. Nov. 3, 2009, at St. Rita’s Medical Center.

He was born Jan. 24, 1930, in Wapakoneta to Dr. Alfred and Agatha Lyons Veit, who preceded him in death.

Mr. Veit was an Army veteran serving from 1954 to 1956, in Germany. He had been a teacher at Minster High School for almost 33 years, before he had a heart attack and quadruple bypass surgery in 1982. He taught English composition and logic to juniors and seniors, but insisted on doing so at a college preparatory level, for which many of his students came back to thank him after attending college. He directed high school and community theater productions, including Greek dramas. His first love was music, especially 16th century polyphonic music. He conducted church choirs at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Wapakoneta, and St. Augustine Catholic Church, Minster. He organized and conducted the Wapakoneta Chorale and gave numerous concerts, some of which were his own compositions. He loved to cook and provide food for several occasions, even groups as large as 300 people.

Survivors include a nephew, Jud Cooley, of Escondido, Calif.; a niece, Leah Jones, of Overland Park, Kan.; and his lifelong friend and caregiver, Joe Schlater, of Wapakoneta.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Sally (John L.) Cooley; and a nephew, Brad Cooley.

Memorial services will begin at noon Friday at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Wapakoneta. A private burial of the cremains will be held later for immediate family and close friends.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Rita’s Hospice, 959 W. North St., Lima, OH 45805.

Condolences may be expressed at www.schlosserfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are by Schlosser Funeral Home, Wapakoneta.