Joerg "Joe" Mehlman, 69, longtime Pullman resident, passed away on June 29, 2016 at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Lewiston due to complications from a stroke. A graveside service will be held at the Pullman Cemetery at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, July 8.

Joe was born in Berlin, Germany to Heinz and Elfriede Mehlman in 1947. He immigrated to the United States with his parents and became a naturalized US citizen. The Mehlman family settled in Pullman after sampling several cities including New York, New York and Spokane, Washington. Joe attended school in Pullman and was a Pullman High School graduate.

After high school he served in the Air Force during the Vietnam War. Upon an honorable discharge Joe returned home and became a firefighter with the City of Pullman. After leaving the Fire Department he became a custodian and later a custodial lead with Facility Operations at WSU. Joe loved his job on the 7:30 shift. He knew many clients by name and his co-workers were friends. He remained at WSU until his retirement.

Joe loved his family and spending quality time together. Many days and weekends were spent traveling and attending events the children were involved in, which he thoroughly enjoyed. Joe was an avid Cougar and Greyhound supporter; attending many games for both teams.

He was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife Kelli Mehlman of Pullman, WA; daughter Michelle Mehlman of Bozeman, MT; and son Joel Anderson of Pullman, WA.

Memorial contributions in Joe's honor are suggested to the Pullman Regional Hospital Foundation or to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. Kimball Funeral Home of Pullman has been entrusted with arrangements.