Honor Mission
Joseph F. Ketzer, Jr.
US Navy
Vietnam Veteran
Multi-City, NY - 06/25/2024
Mission applies to the following Region(s):
Region 4, Region 5
About the Mission:
The family of Joseph F. "Joe" Ketzer, Jr. has requested Patriot Guard Riders participation in his military honors funeral services. Joe passed on Monday, June 16, 2024, in Inverness, Florida, surrounded by his loving family.
Born in Albany, NY, Joe was a proud native of Rensselaer. He graduated from Rensselaer High School and during the Vietnam War, enlisted in the United States Navy on 19 November 1968. As a member of the Naval Mobile Construction Battalion, (Seabees), he played a pivotal role in constructing crucial infrastructure under arduous conditions, often amidst enemy fire. He served 1 year 9 months and 7 days overseas, and was honorably discharged with a rating of Builder, at the rank of Petty Officer 3rd Class. For his service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal.
After his military service, Joe became a dedicated member of the Carpenters Local Union #291 (formerly #370) for 52 years; remaining a member in good standing until his passing. While with the Local, he worked on many jobs, including the construction of The Egg at the Empire State Plaza. Joe's dedication to his craft and his role as a general foreman and union treasurer were sources of great pride.
Portions of the above narrative are contained in Joe's obituary, available for viewing online by clicking here
Primary Staging Date and Staging Time:
06/25/2024 at 08:30am
Staging Location:
McVeigh Funeral Home
208 N. Allen St.
Albany, NY 12206
Lead Ride Captain and Contact Info:
Ray Sestak
518-669-3358
Special Covid-19 Mission Guidelines:
Updated 15, May 2024
The CDC has changed its COVID-19 protocol recommendations for 2024, updating them to reflect the changing severity and transmission of the virus. Please click here for the latest information and continue to practice common sense distancing protocols while in enclosed locations.
Special Information:
Staging at the funeral home with a flag line for a dignified transfer, followed by escort to The Parish of St. John the Evangelist and St. Joseph, 50 Herrick Street, Rensselaer, NY. Anticipated KSU of 09:00 am. Anyone not wishing to join the escort may stage directly at the church.
Is there a Second Stage to this Mission?
yes
Second Staging Date and Staging Time:
06/25/2024 at 09:00am
Second Location:
The Parish of St. John the Evangelist and St. Joseph
50 Herrick Street
Rensselaer, NY 12144
Second Lead Ride Captain and Contact Info:
Ray Sestak
518-669-3358
Second Stage - Special Information:
Staging at the church with a flag line for a dignified transfer. Church services scheduled for 09:30, followed by escort to Saratoga National Cemetery for interment with military honors.
Is there a Third Stage to this Mission?
yes
Third Staging Date and Staging Time:
06/25/2024 at 12:00pm
Third Location:
Saratoga National Cemetery
200 Duell Road
Schuylerville, NY 12871
Third Lead Ride Captain and Contact Info:
Ray Sestak
518-669-3358
Third Stage - Special Information:
Interment with military honors scheduled for 12:30 pm. Please stage quietly and in accordance with current guidelines.
Is there a Fourth Stage to this Mission?
no
Submitted by:
Ray Sestak
rs 06/20; MER
