Joseph Preston

Joseph C. Preston, 91, of North Oxford and Laguna Hills California, formerly of Worcester, MA a retired Sergeant Major, in the Marine Corps passed away peacefully, Tuesday, February 22nd in his California home. Joe was born in Worcester a son of James S. and Mary F. (Mason) Preston. He graduated from Commerce High School and the New England School of Accounting where he earned a degree in Accounting and Business. Joe joined the Marine Corp in 1942 to serve his country during World War II with the First Marine Division, Fleet Marine Force in the battle of Guadalcanal and later the 2nd Marine Division Fleet Marine Force. After World War II, he joined the Marine reserves in Massachusetts and retired as a Sergeant Major in 1959. He served as President of the 1st Marine Division Assoc. and was the Commandant of the Marine Corp League in 1966. In 1966 he began a 22 year career with the Commonwealth of MA Department of Revenue. He lived most of his life in Worcester, before moving to North Oxford, spending winters in California. Joe was a devoted father, husband, grandfather and friend. He cherished his Irish heritage and the joy of having a large family. He and his wife Dorothy, most enjoyed spending time with their children and grand/great grandchildren who were their inspiration in life. Joe loved to fish with his sons even up to his 91st year, play cards, read, travel, and reminisce about the good old days. Joe always had a sparkle in his eyes and a zest for life. He was admired by many for his good-natured attitude, his incredible sense of humor and quick wit. He taught us the value of loyalty via his long term relationships with his wife, family and friends. Joe loved to sing publically, and did so until the night prior to his passing. He was a part of the "Greatest Generation" and believed in this fine country in which we are privileged to live. His beloved wife of 60 years, Dorothy P. (Moriarty) Preston died in February 2005. A granddaughter, Samantha Jade Preston, predeceased him, along with his two brothers, Rev James F. and John P Preston. He survived by his devoted children, Maureen Preston of Worcester; Dennis Preston and his wife Lina of Laguna Niguel California, Kevin Preston and his wife Beverly of Worcester; James Preston and his wife Rosemarie of Belmont; Mark Preston of Laguna Beach, California; Brian Preston and his wife Lisa of Rutland, Kathleen Wenger and her husband Robert of Laguna Beach, California; a sister, Kathleen M. Chabot of Worcester; seventeen grandchildren; David and wife Holly, Matthew, Melissa and Scott Trotta; Michaela, Brendon, Kalina, Rachel, Andrew, Carolyn, Jessica, Kelsey, Morgan, Erin, Ryan, Garrett and Reed Preston, two great grandchildren Emily and Michael Trotta; many nieces, nephews, extended family and many friends. Joe's funeral with Full Military Honors will be held Tuesday, March 1st from the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St with a Mass at 11:00 am in Our Lady of the Rosary Church, 35 Fales St. Burial will be in St John Cemetery. Friends and relatives are invited to visit with the family, Monday, February 28th from 4 pm to 8 pm in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers Joe requested that memorial contributions be made in his memory to the 1st Marine Division Association Scholarship Program, 403 N. Freeman Street, Oceanside, CA 92054 760-967-8561.