Joe DeVolld Hershey, 62, a lifelong Holton resident, died August 6, 2018 at Holton Community Hospital. He was born to Betty D. and H.J. (Pat) Hershey on November 29, 1955 at Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka.

Because of a brain injury at birth, Joe struggled all his life with learning disabilities, cerebral palsy and seizures and later in life with blindness; but he never let it deter him from living a full life. Joe graduated from Holton High School in 1977. He was a member of the former Presbyterian Church in Holton and a proud member of the Holton Country Club.

Joe lived with his dad until moving to Pennsylvania Place in 2011. He enjoyed walking around the square to visit with store owners and to shop. He always knew what was going on downtown. He also enjoyed dining at Boomers with his dad, where he could see many friends, and playing in the Wednesdaynight golf group. His sense of humor was always noticed by his family and friends.

Joe knew he would never have children but considered his niece and nephews his kids. In fact, he was their favorite uncle because he would play all sorts of games with them while they were growing up. Joe had a strong attachment to his extended family, keeping up with the events in the lives of his many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Pat and Betty Hershey; 2 nephews, Ken and Greg Shaffer.

Survivors include three sisters, Susan Hershey, Jean Williams and Linda Shaffer (Bob). He is also survived by his niece, Heather Hartman, two nephews, David Hartman and Patrick Williams; as well as a great-niece, Madeleine Hartman; four great-nephews, Christopher Hutcherson, Michael Robbins, Nicholas Hartman and Nicholas Williams and the residents and staff of Pennsylvania Place.

Funeral service will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 11, 2018 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow in the Holton Cemetery. Family will greet friends from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. Saturday. In lieu of flowers, the family would greatly appreciate donations to Pennsylvania Place c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visitwww.mercerfuneralhomes.com.