Joseph Henry Crnkovic, 72, of Austin, died Friday, Dec. 4, 2009 at his home.
    Joe was born May 27, 1937 in Austin to Charles and Myrtle (Merrill) Crnkovic. On May 26, 1958 he was united in marriage to Judy Ellen McKee at the United Methodist Church in Austin. Joe was a painter for Austin Public Schools, and he also worked at the Red Owl Food Store.
    Joe loved to fish, watch NASCAR, collect cars, collect Coca Cola memorabilia and spend fun times with the grandchildren. He was a father and a leader of his sons and their spouses in their lives. Joe enjoyed playing cribbage and was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone.
    Survivors include his wife, Judy Crnkovic, Austin; son, Jimmy Crnkovic, St. Peter and his children, Kyle Crnkovic, Mankato, Kari Morrison, Bancroft, Iowa; son, Jon (Kristin) Crnkovic, Austin, and their daughter, Jenna Crnkovic; Joel (Connie) Crnkovic, Austin, and their children, Landon Crnkovic and Leslie Crnkovic; sister, Ruth Heatherly, Yankton, S.D.
    He is preceded in death by his sister and brother-in-law, Joyce and Roger Peters; parents, Myrtle and Charles Crnkovic.
    A Celebration of Joe’s Life will be held 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2009 at Crane Community Chapel in the Fellowship Hall with Pastor Dale Christiansen officiating. The family will greet friends at a reception following the service.
    Arrangements by Mayer Funeral Home.