Joseph B. Kehn

Joseph Blair Kehn, Jr., 82, of Hickory, died Friday, October 28, 2011, in his residence, following a lengthy illness. He was born May 17, 1929, in Hickory, a son of Joseph B. Kehn Sr. and Ellen Flemming Kehn. Mr. Kehn graduated from Hickory High School. On May 24, 1951, he entered the Army. Mr. Kehn served until his honorable discharge on May 16, 1953, with a rank of sergeant. His medals include the Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, Combat infantry Badge, Purple Heart and the Bronze Star. For 30 years, he worked at Forbes Steel and for 50 years he was the owner of Kehn’s Korner Market in Hickory. Mr. Kehn was a member of Westland Sportsmen’s Club and was an avid hunter and fisherman. On August 29, 1953, he married Frankie Nelson, who survives. Also surviving are two sons, William J. (Velma) Kehn of Arizona and James J. Kehn of Scenery Hill; four daughters, Debra (Marty) Betters, Joy (Ken) Dallapiazza and Jody (Mike) Pirillo, all of Hickory, and Kim (David) Snatchko of Washington; 11 grandchildren, Heather Tkach, Travis Herriott, Trevor and Tyler Joe Dallapiazza, William and Joey Kehn, Casey Jo and Chastity Pirillo, Kurt Karmann, and Mike and Matthew Kehn; and five great grandchildren. There will be no public visitation or services. Memorial contributions may be made to the family in care of the funeral home.