Joseph Michael Dent

Joseph “Joe” Michael Dent was born May 14, 1943, in Salem, Missouri and was the son of William “Bill” and Mary (Heeney) Dent. Joe was a Salem High School graduate and always looked forward to his class reunions where he could reunite with classmates and share stories and memories. Joe’s first job was working for his father, who was part owner, at the Dent Brothers Hardware store on what is known as the “Dent Block” in Salem. Eventually the hardware store was sold, and Joe went to work at Bank of Salem as a custodian. Joe was employed there for many years and loved his work family. Joe appreciated how the bank always treated him so kindly and even celebrated his birthday with him, they meant more to him than anyone could ever know. Some of Joe’s favorite things to do were having breakfast with the boys at Main Street Café, feeding the birds, hummingbirds, and squirrels daily, and being surrounded by nature. Joe was a simple, quiet man who would do anything for anyone and always had a nod or wave as you passed by him. Joe grew up in the Catholic Faith. Joe entered eternal rest on Sunday, January 19, 2025, in Salem, Missouri. He leaves behind his special cousins: Ramona Baldwin of Warrensburg, MO, Dr. R. Dent Underwood and wife Mary of St. Paul, MN, and Linda Scott and husband Fred of St. Louis, MO; special friends: Randy and Nancy Eudy of Salem, MO; other relatives, and dear friends. Joe is preceded in death by his parents: William “Bill” and Mary (Heeney) Dent; and brother: Tim Dent. Joe lived well and loved much; he will be forever missed by those who knew him best. Funeral Mass for Joseph Michael Dent was held Saturday, January 25, 2025, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Salem, Missouri, with Father Antoney Jose Thundathil officiating. Serving as Pallbearers were Steve Wulff, Dent Underwood, Joe Adamick, Richard Baker, Dan Salyer, and Mike Wulff. Honorary Pallbearers were Randy Eudy, Paul Dale, Ed Pratt, Jim Moenster, and Don Adamick. Burial was in the Cedar Grove Cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri. In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made in memory of Joseph Dent to Sacred Heart Catholic Church and left with Wilson Mortuary. Memorial Envelopes will be available. Online Condolences may be left at www.wilsonmortuary.com

Joseph Michael Dent

May 14, 1943 - January 19, 2025