In Loving Memory of Joseph Carl Blum

Joseph “Joe” Carl Blum passed away on August 30, 2026, in Mission Viejo, California. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, son, brother, family member, and friend whose life was defined first and foremost by the love he had for his family.

Of all the roles Joe held throughout his life, none meant more to him than being a husband and a father. His greatest pride and joy was his family. He was the devoted husband of Paula and the proud father of Jessica, Justin, Jarrett, and Jeffrey. He cherished every moment spent with his family and took immense joy in watching it grow through the years. Joe's love extended across generations.

Joe had a special relationship with each member of his family. He was a steady presence—someone they could turn to for wisdom, encouragement, support, or simply a smile. His humor, kindness, and unwavering love created a foundation that his family will carry with them always. Whether gathered for holidays (dropping a tray of New York Steaks during New Year’s), celebrations, family traditions, or the simple moments of everyday life (including Tri-tip and chicken thighs alongside Gumba with jazz playing loud in the background – if only to bug Paula), being surrounded by the people he loved was where Joe was happiest.

Joe was born on November 9, 1958, in Orange County California. The Mission Viejo community was where he would call home throughout his entire life. He graduated from Mission Viejo High School and went on to earn his Bachelor's degree in Engineering from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. A gifted college athlete, (one could also count on Joe for the Heisman pose) Joe brought determination, discipline, and a strong sense of teamwork to everything he did. Those same qualities guided him as a husband, father, grandfather, and friend.

Joe dedicated his professional life to serving the community he loved as a civil engineer. His family played an important role in the development and history of Rancho Santa Margarita, giving Joe a deep and personal connection to the area and its future. He was proud to contribute to projects that helped shape the community, including Dana Point Harbor, Anaheim Water, and many others. Joe also served as a Planning Commissioner for the City of Mission Viejo for ten years, continuing his lifelong commitment to the place where he was raised and spent his life.

Joe's connection to family and tradition was reflected in his involvement with El Viaje de Portola. A second-generation member, he proudly carried on a tradition that began with his father, who was one of the organization's founding members. Joe was especially proud that three of his sons followed in his footsteps as members, continuing a family legacy that spanned generations. Rack ‘em!

To know Joe was to know someone who seemed to know everyone. On many travels, he would strike up a conversation with strangers and find a mutual connection which would lead to dinner, drinks and exchanging information. He had an extraordinary ability to make people feel welcome and valued, his friendships extended across generations throughout the community. Yet, even with the many people whose lives he touched, his family always remained at the center of his heart.

Perhaps Joe's greatest gift was his kindness. He never had a bad word to say about anyone. He saw the good in people and treated everyone with respect, warmth, and genuine interest. He was the kind of man who made others feel comfortable, who offered a helping hand without being asked, and whose quiet generosity left a lasting impression.

Joe's passing leaves an immeasurable void in the lives of those who loved him most. For Paula, his children, grandchildren, great-grandchild, extended family, and countless friends, life will not be the same without his steady presence. While they will miss his smile, his humor, his guidance, and the comfort of simply having him nearby, they will forever be grateful for the love he gave so freely.

He will be remembered not only for all that he accomplished, but for who he was: a devoted family man, a loving husband and father, a proud grandfather and great-grandfather, a loyal friend, and a man whose kindness touched everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Joe will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and in the generations who will carry his love and legacy forward.

Joe is survived by his loving wife Paula, four children, 13 grandchildren and one great grandson

Funeral Service

Thursday, September 17, 2026

10:15am

St. Kilian Catholic Church

26872 Estanciero Dr,

Mission Viejo, CA 92691

In lieu of flowers the family welcomes memorial donations to

J F Shea Therapeutic Riding Center

San Juan Capistrano, CA