Joseph Melching Wanenmacher, Jr., passed from this world to his eternal home on Thursday, February 10, 2022.   Joe was born October 23, 1934, in Tulsa, to parents Joseph M. Wanenmacher, Sr., and Orvalyn Osborn Wanenmacher.  He is survived by his wife Kathleen of the home, and  his children, Joseph M. Wanenmacher, III, and wife Sheryl, his son Mark A. Wanenmacher, and wife Bunny, his daughter Kari P. Wanenmacher, his sister Patti Wanenmacher Apple, and family, his grandchildren, Krystal Wanenmacher, Mark A. Wanenmacher, II, and Dalana Wanenmacher, and nieces, nephews and cousins, and step-children Rob King and Lydia King.

Joe, a petroleum engineer, was associated with the Keplinger and Wanenmacher Petroleum Engineering Consultants, succeeded by the Wanenmacher and Mueller Petroleum Consultants firm for many years.

Always a gun enthusiast and collector, he has been a member of the Indian Territory Gun Collectors since 1968.  His hobby became his business when he created the Wanenmacher Arms Show, which he developed into the premiere and largest gun show in the world.  He was honored by both the City of Tulsa and by Tulsa County for the revenue to Tulsa generated by the Wanenmacher Arms Shows over the years.

Joe graced this world with his presence.  He was brilliant, gentle and modest, a caring and generous dad and grandad.  He is dearly loved and held in the highest esteem by his family and many friends around the world.  He was a good man.  We shall always miss him.

Joe was a life-long animal lover, rescuing many.  It is suggested that, in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Tulsa Humane Society.