Col. Joseph M. Dwyer, USMC (Ret.), of Bristow, VA, died November 1, 2015 at Fairfax Hospital.

Born December 29, 1940 in Buffalo, NY, he was the son of the late Joseph E. Dwyer and Martha C. Dwyer.

He served in the Marine Corps for twenty-six years serving two tours in Vietnam where he received two Bronze Stars for Valor and the Purple Heart. Upon his retirement, he was awarded the Legion of Merit medal for his “exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services and achievements”. Following his career as a Marine he worked for a private security firm, a firm dedicated to providing jobs for the mentally disabled, and finally as a university professor and advisor.

He is survived by his wife of forty-four years, Carol J. Dwyer, son Jason Dwyer, daughter Michelle Warren, Grandchildren Logan Dwyer, Karlyn Austin-Taylor, Keri Austin, MacKenzie Austin, Cpl. Tyler Austin (USMC), and Brother Charles E. Dwyer.

A “Celebration of Life” service will be held Friday, November 13, 2015, 4:00 p.m. at Baker Post Funeral Home in Manassas, VA. Family will be receiving visitors from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. He is being laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors at a future date yet to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you make a donation in his name to the Semper Fi Fund, Wounded Warriors, Disabled American Veterans, etc.

Once a Marine, always a Marine. He was a loving Husband, Father, Brother and Grandfather.

Please sign the guest book at www.bakerpostfh.com.