JOE AVILLA
Class of 1963
Joe was born in McAllen, Texas,and grew up in Defiance where he co-captained the DHS Bulldog football team and was named to the All-Ohio Second Team. He was known as caring young man and a relentless
football player who always gave his all. Each year, the Defiance Football team awards the Joe Avilla Award to the player that represents Joe Avilla’s passion for the game. He was a member of the National Honor Society and president of the 1963 senior class. He attended the University of Toledo on a full athletic scholarship and was active in the ROTC program, graduating in 1967 with a BS degree in industrial engineering. Upon graduation he joined the U.S. Air Force based in Panama City, FL and had the rank of staff sergeant. Upon discharge he was employed by Libby Owens in Perrysburg, Ohio, and later moved to McLouth Steel, in Monroe, MI, and later transferred to Ironton, OH. In his later years, he lived in McAllen, Texas, where he developed and taught a unique system of learning for adults. In McAllen, he also worked with the local schools, organizing events to encourage student and family participation. His passions included fishing, playing golf and creating both vegetable and flower gardens. He was constantly involved in home improvement projects, an avid reader and wonderful story teller. Above all, he was an excellent dancer. Joe valued family life and was at his best cooking at all family celebrations. He excelled in technical writing and wrote poetry for friends and family.
Mr Avilla passed away on July 26th, 2018.