Henry Joseph “Joe” Lavender, 73, passed away peacefully at home in Lady Lake, FL after an extended illness. Born March 9, 1953 in Sebring, FL he later moved to Wildwood, FL where he graduated from Wildwood High School in 1972. After graduation, Joe proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps and served for 2 years. After his military service, Joe started his career working in the building supply business and later worked as a supervisor in the wireless communications industry.

Joe is survived by his devoted wife Valentina “Tina”; daughter Alisha (Tim) Bounds, Centennial, CO; step-son Richard Watkins, Lady Lake, FL and two grandchildren; sister Glenda Accorsi. He is preceded in death by his parents Robert and Genean (Register) Lavender; and brother Lester Q. “Bobby” Lavender.

Joe loved boating, camping and the outdoors. His hobby was working with wood and building in his spare time, with some of his larger handiworks being a greenhouse, a gazebo and deck at their home, and an outdoor squirrel pre-release structure for a rehabber. He also crafted many wooden nesting boxes for both grey squirrels and southern flying squirrels, always adding his own special touches to the finished product.

Baldwin Brothers Funeral & Cremation Society in The Villages, FL is handling a private cremation in accordance with Joe’s wishes. A Celebration of Life for family and friends will be held at a later date.

Arrangements entrusted with BALDWIN BROTHERS Funeral & Cremation Society-Spanish Springs, 352-430-1449. Sentiments are encouraged at www.baldwincremation.com.