Joseph B Mayer

Joseph B Mayer passed away peacefully on Monday, October 9, 2023, at the age of 89. His heart, broken by the loss of his beloved wife, Elene Mayer, just nine months prior, could no longer bear the weight of his grief.

Joseph was born on August 6, 1934, in Lorain, Ohio, and spent his entire life in Vermilion, where he left an indelible mark.

Joseph dedicated 35 years of his life to the City of Vermilion Police Department, retiring in 1994 as a Sergeant. His commitment to the community extended beyond his profession, as he was an active member of various organizations, including St. Mary Catholic Parish, Vermilion, FOP #125, AMVETS Post #22, American Legion Post #397, Amherst Eagles, and the Vermilion Fish and Game.

Known locally as the "Thunderbird expert," Joseph had an unwavering passion for restoring cars, which brought joy to those who shared his enthusiasm. He also found delight in casino bus trips, camping adventures, and exploring new destinations. Joseph was a regular attendee of cruise-ins and car shows, where he shared his love for classic automobiles with friends and fellow enthusiasts.

Joseph Mayer is survived by his sons, Joseph (Connie) Mayer of Amherst and Dean (Kay) Mayer of Vermilion; daughters, Veronica (Philip) Vanden Bout of Vermilion, Nancy Mayer of Vermilion, Mary (David Good) Mayer of Vermilion, and Laura (Doug) Brown of Vermilion; cherished grandchildren, Troy, Vanessa, Renee, Nicholas, Amanda, Kristen, Julie, Savannah, Adam, Joseph, Eric, Halle, Angela, and Dana; and 24 great-grandchildren with one more on the way. He is also survived by his brother, Lester Mayer, numerous nieces and nephews, sister-in-law, Rita Mayer; and life long friend, Ron Millis.

Joseph was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Elene Mayer, in January of the same year, his parents, Nicholas and Wilhelmina (nee Beursken) Mayer, and siblings, Paul, Nicholas, Robert, Walter, and Rosemary Ondrus. He was also preceded in death by his son-in-law, Robert Beach III.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during visitation hours on Wednesday, October 11, 2023, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Riddle Funeral Home, located at 5345 South Street, Vermilion, Ohio.

Prayers in memory of Joseph will be held at the funeral home on Thursday, October 12, 2023, at 10:30 AM, followed by an 11:00 AM Mass of Christian Burial at St. Mary Catholic Parish, 731 Exchange Street, Vermilion. Interment will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery, Vermilion.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial contributions to be made to FOP #125, 5791 Liberty Ave, Vermilion, OH 44089, or St. Mary Catholic Parish, 731 Exchange Street, Vermilion, OH 44089.

Online condolences and shared memories can be offered at www.riddlefuneralhome.com, where Joseph Mayer's legacy will continue to be celebrated and cherished by those whose lives he touched. Joseph will forever be remembered for his dedication to his family, community, and his passion for classic cars. May he rest in eternal peace, reunited with his beloved Elene.