Saratoga Springs, NY - Joseph F. Dwyer, Sr. died Monday, May 4, 2015 with family by his side, following a long illness. He was 87 years old. Joe was the only son of Helen Dwyer. Born in Ballston Spa, NY on July 14, 1927, his late wife Evelyn (Dowen) Dwyer predeceased him. A very patriotic man, Joe lied about his age to join the military and fought in World War Two in the European Theatre. He joined the US Navy in 1966 and served in Vietnam during 1968-1969 with the Seabees, building bridges and housing for the Marines. It was there that he met his lifelong friend Bill Coblentz of Indiana and they forged a friendship that lasted over the past 47 years. His favorite saying was "take a little, leave a little." Joe was a lifetime member of Gurtler Bros. Post 420 VFW and American Legion Adirondack Post 70. Joe was a dedicated volunteer member of the Monday Honor Guard Group at the Gerald BH Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery since its inception. It remained a position he loved and was passionate about until he gave it all up to be by his wife during her illness. Survivors include his six children: Edward (Mary), Joseph Jr. (Kimberlee), Patrick, Kathleen Plue, Christine (Warren) Wildy and John (Ginny); 17 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren. At his request, there will be no calling hours. Funeral services and military honors will be conducted at 1pm Monday, May 11, 2015 at the Saratoga National Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cuniff Funeral Homes of 628 North Broadway (584-5373). Memorial donations may be made in his name to the Gerald Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery Honor Guard, 200 Duell Rd., Schuylerville, NY 12871. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.