Military Branch: Army; Rank: SSG

Summary:

Joe lived life to the fullest. He had a big sense of humor and a huge heart willing to give his shirt off his back. His motto was, “be a leader, not a follower”.

He loved the Army, but above all, his greatest love was his family. Joseph was a loving husband and a dedicated father to his two boys.

SSG Garyantes' Army career took him throughout the world, including; Hohenfels, Germany, Ft. Lewis, Washington, and Vilseck, Germany. He deployed to Iraq in February 2004 with his unit, B Company, 1st Battalion, 63rd Armor Regiment, 1st Infantry Division.

He was a dedicated family man and a fierce competitor who enjoyed playing basketball.

Life Achievements/ Recognitions:

Joseph was a dedicated father and loved family time with his boys. He taught them so much in the short time he was blessed to be their father.

He was a career soldier who joined the Army in 1991 after his high school graduation.

Received numerous awards, including the bronze star and the Purple Heart.

Joe was a competitive basketball player and loved a good game of golf with his brothers and a cold Budweiser.