Gen. Joseph Thomas Palastra

General Joseph Thomas Palastra Jr, age 83, of Highlandville, passed away Tuesday, March 3, 2015. He was born November 10, 1931 in Kittery, Maine, the son of Joseph and Isabelle (Lamson) Palastra. He graduated from West Point, and retired from the U.S. Army as a 4-Star General. During his career he served three tours of Vietnam, at the Pentagon, and the Pacific Rim. He was a humble man, always caring about the troops and enjoying being with them as a friend. Following retirement he and his wife, Anne, moved to Myrtle, Missouri, where he enjoyed living on the farm, and being "Joe". After 25 years on the farm, they moved to Springfield and then Highlandville. He is survived by his wife, Anne; three daughters; a son; and eight grandchildren. A daughter preceded him in death. According to the wishes of General Palastra, no services are planned. Cremation is under the direction of Adams Funeral Home, Ozark.