Joseph J. Depoorter, 84, East Moline, passed away on Friday, March 6, 2015 at his home. Funeral services are 10 AM Tuesday at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, Silvis. Burial is in St. Mary's Cemetery, East Moline. Visitation is 4-7 PM Monday at Van Hoe Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to Schone's Equine Rescue, formerly known as Schone's Friendship Farm, Milan.

Joe was born on September 25, 1930 in Moline, the son of Joseph and Julia (VandenBussche) Depoorter. He was the head merchandiser for Saelens Beverage for 28 years, retiring in 1984. He managed the farm for Royal Bourbon Stables and had taught at Mud Creek Stables. Joe loved riding horses and teaching others to ride. He had taught hundreds of area youth the art of riding. Joe enjoyed his Friday night pizza and cards with his friends, and going out for dinner.

Survivors include his children Josephine Williams (Mike Veberg), Carbon Cliff and Joseph (Jackie) Depoorter, Moline, grandchildren, Wendy (Chris) Vastine, Nicole (Jeremy) Bruns, Ryan (Kasie) Depoorter, Renee (Nick) Killham, and Jahnon (Brad) Kreisler, great grandchildren, Allison, Thomas, Sophie, Sawyer, Kylie, Addison, Rece, Reagen and Luke, and siblings, Bob Depoorter, Moline, Theresa Wilson, Durant and Julia DeBlaey, Rapids, City, IL.

He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, Marie, Antoinette, Margaret, Ann, Dorothy, Clara, Rose Marie, Betty, George and Lawrence and his son-in-law Ronald Williams.