Joseph R. Gunnewick

Retired Cincinnati Firefighter, Captain Joseph R. Gunnewick, passed away after a long struggle with cancer on August 5, 2018 at the age of 57. Joe graduated from Elder High School and served four years in the US Navy before becoming a firefighter in 1988. He was a proud member of the Cincinnati Fire Department for 26 years and served as Treasurer for the Union Local 48 for many years. After his retirement in 2015, Joe pursued his favorite pastime of golf, and lived to see his dream of playing at St. Andrew's in Scotland. Joe was a remarkable man who faced life's challenges with great strength and dignity. He was a wonderful influence and inspiration to so many throughout his life. We will miss him dearly but are consoled knowing that he may rest in peace.
Joe was the beloved son of the late Jack and Sally (Hilvert) Gunnewick. Devoted husband of 28 years to Mary Murphy, and son-in-law to Florence Murphy. Loving brother to Janice Herdeman, John Gunnewick, Mary Ann (Glen) Smith, and Amy (Tim) Burgasser. Dear brother-in-law to Michael (Linda) Murphy and Kathleen (Randall) Jones. Cherished uncle of Kevin (Kristen), Sean (Kristina) and Eric (Ann) Murphy, PJ (Liesl) Neyer, Glen (Robin) Smith, Lauren, Jake and Emily Herdeman, and Nick and Jack Burgasser. Great uncle to James, Jude, Clementina, Collin, Dylan, Christian, Jace and Elijah.

A memorial Mass will be held on Friday, August 24, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Lawrence Catholic Church, 3680 Warsaw Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio. All are invited to attend a Celebration of Life immediately following the Mass at the Cincinnati Firefighters Union Hall, 1011 Eighth Street W, Cincinnati, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made in Joe's honor to the American Cancer Society or to your favorite charity.