NAPLES, Fla. | Joseph F. Samwebber, 91, of Naples, Fla., formerly of Chicago and Savannah, Ga., died Jan. 11, 2013. Born in Auburn, on Aug. 9, 1921, Joe was a talented high school athlete, lettering in football and basketball. As a naval officer in World War II, he commanded a ship in the Pacific over a two year tour of duty. After his service, he returned to graduate from Michigan State Teacher's College (Eastern Michigan University) in Ypsilanti. Joe then began a distinguished career with Swift & Co. and later, ESMARK, Inc., retiring in 1984, as president of National Wax Co. in Skokie, Ill. Joe and the love of his life, Mary, retired to Savannah, Ga., where they enjoyed 16 years of great golf, travel, and many good friends at The Landings. Joe excelled at many pursuits. An avid, low handicap golfer, he had several holes-in-one to his credit. He enjoyed tennis and his Canadian fishing trips. Joe played bridge throughout his life and looked forward to his weekly poker games with the boys at Bentley Village in Naples. All who knew him will remember his ready smile and irrepressible sense of humor. He was a Catholic. We will always hold you close dear husband, father and friend. He is survived by his wife, Mary, of Naples, Fla.; his son, Mark (Cindy), of Sarasota, Fla.; grandson, Joe, of Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; brother-in-law, Bob Gartler; niece, Pamela Righter, of Buffalo, and nieces, Barbara Walsh, of Auburn and Mary Jo Boardman, of Boston, Mass. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
