Dr. Joseph W. Hess is celebrating his hundredth birthday on, June 7, 2026. He was raised as a farm boy in rural Utah and learned the value of hard work and resilience early in life. His service in the Navy during World War II began his love for travel and exploring the world. His desire to serve and minister to people, led him to pursue a distinguished career in academic medicine. For 40 years, he served his community and medical students as a physician and educator, leaving a legacy of patient-centered healthcare and academic excellence. He has been a role model of devotion to family, service to community, compassion and respect for all people and cultures. He is the beloved patriarch of six children, 16 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren. Celebrating a century of blessings!