NOA Medical recently lost our founder, Joseph Meiners. Joe exemplified the very best of his generation - the Greatest Generation. Born in 1926, Joe grew up during the Great Depression, then went to fight in the Big One, came home from the war, raised a large family and became a successful businessman, employer and entrepreneur. Joe worked hard every day of his life. He took full responsibility for everything and never complained about anything. His word was his bond. His handshake meant everything. His great sense of humor created millions of smiles. Raised in Pasadena Hills, Joe graduated from Normandy H.S. in 1944. Although only 17 years old, he enlisted in the Navy. He was the tail gunner on a Martin PBM flying patrol boat assigned to reconnaissance missions in the Atlantic. Joe graduated from St. Louis University in 1949 with a degree in commerce and finance. A natural salesman, he worked as a manufacturers' rep. Meiners Sales Corporation soon followed. Clients included Woodson Products, a machine shop Joe bought in 1979 and grew into the largest of its kind in the Midwest. He sold the company in 1998 and concentrated on building up NOA Medical, a family owned nursing home and hospital bed manufacturer headquartered in Washington, MO. Always giving back, Joe's generosity was spread large. Family members, friends, employees, St. Louis University, micro-financing activities in Africa and the Archdiocese of St. Louis were touched by his bounty. Joe passed away on December 15th at Mari De Villa after a long struggle with congestive heart failure. He was predeceased by his first wife Carol Meiners; his infant children Daniel and James; his sister Marie Klorer and his brothers Robert and Donnie Meiners. He is survived by and deary missed by his loving wife, Barbara Meiners (nee Jones); his brother Paul (Sally) Meiners; sisters Dorothy Sieter and Elaine Goodwin; and his children David (Babette) Meiners; Elizabeth Mantych; Marilyn Berry (Danny) Hagely; Eileen (Sam) Glasser; and Jane (Mike) Megown. Surviving grandchildren are David and William Meiners; Mary Beth, Greg, Carolyn and Kate Mantych; Tad, Scott, Christine and Lauren Berry; and Kelly, Micheal, Caroline and Sam Megown. Surving step daughter is Lora Ceperley. Surviving step grandchildren are Nate and Elizabeth Ceperley. Joe will be missed by all here at NOA Medical
