Joseph Robert Chadwick, owner of the Rusted Buffalo, passed away on April 8, 2015 at his home in Ellijay, GA. Joe was born on May 12, 1945 in Alpena, MI to the late Kenneth and June Chadwick. He grew up in Atlanta, MI and graduated from Atlanta High School in 1963. Soon after graduating he joined the Army and was proud to be a Vietnam Veteran who served during one of its most intensive periods of the conflict. He spent his professional career of more than 30 years as an airline captain with over 25,000 hours as a pilot in command. Throughout his aviation career he worked for several air carriers spending much of his time flying internationally. During Operation Desert Storm he flew charter planes with mobile hospitals and supplies that were critical to the effort, for which he received a Presidential Commendation. After retiring from flying he and his surviving wife, Pamela started an industrial manufacturing and retail sales business based in Ellijay, GA. The Rusted Buffalo eventually expanded to five stores across three states. Joe was a member of the American Legion, Masonic Lodge and the Civil Air Patrol.

He is survived by his wife, Pamela, son Craig Chadwick (Treva) of Senoia, GA, son Chuck Chadwick (Terry) of Woodstock, GA, step-son John Rollins of Dallas, TX, step-son Khris Rollins (Rachel) of Dallas, TX, step-daughter Sydney Guerrero of Ellijay, GA, brother Mike Chadwick (Ann) of Hillman, MI, brother Pat Chadwick (Barb) of Alpena, MI and sister Loralee Moeckli (Stan) of St. Louis, MO. He is also survived by eight grandchildren: Nikki, Joseph, Sarah and Katie Chadwick, Jon Lavin, Jordan and Canyon Rollins, and Adrianna Guerrero and one great granddaughter, Chloe Lavin.

A service to honor and celebrate his life will be held on Saturday May 2nd at 1pm at the American Legion GA Post 82 in Ellijay, GA. The family has requested donations to the Wounded Warrior Project in lieu of flowers.

Bernhardt Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.