Photo courtesy of Ferguson Funeral Home - Scottdale
Scottdale, Pennsylvania
Mar 20, 1943 – May 21, 2024
Joel B. Suter, 81
of RuffsDale (East Huntingdon Township) passed away at 7:30 AM Tuesday, May 21, 2024 in the Rehabilitation & Nursing Center, Hempfield Township. Joel was born March 20, 1943 in Mount Pleasant, a son of the late Quintin L. Suter Sr. and Margaret (Sherbondy) Suter. He was married to Reta G. (Clegg) Suter, who passed away on August 24, 2016.
Joel was employed as a Supervisor of East Huntingdon Township for 48 years. Chairman for most of his tenure, he was also a long time roadmaster for the township. He was a welcoming and familiar face to all township residents. In 2020 he was inducted into the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors “Hall of Fame” for his continued dedication and loyalty to his constituents. He was a great asset to this community and he will surely be missed by many. Joel graduated from East Huntingdon High school, Class of 1961 and was a lifelong faithful member of St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Scottdale where he formerly served on church council.
He was also a life member of the East Huntingdon Fireman’s, the Marion Masonic Lodge #562, and the PA State Supervisors Association. Joel also enjoyed farming and gardening.
Joel will be sadly missed by his loving family; his dear friend and loving companion, Karen Stefl; his two sisters-in-law, Martha and Eleanor Suter; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was the last surviving member of the Quintin and Margaret Suter family and in addition to his parents and wife of 43 years, he was preceded in death by his siblings and spouses: Quintin Suter Jr. & Sara, Donald Suter, Marjorie Stoner & Richard,
Frances Kintigh, & George, Shirley Suter, & Frank Suter.
Personalized arrangements are under the professional supervision of the ROBERT B. FERGUSON FUNERAL HOME, 105 SPRING STREET, SCOTTDALE (www.fergusonfunerals.com). Family and friends will be received from 2-7 PM Friday in the funeral home chapel. Additional viewing will be from 11 AM - 1:30 PM Saturday in St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 600 Mulberry Street, Scottdale where funeral services will be held at 1:30 PM Saturdaywith Pastor Kevin Anderson officiating. Graveside committal service and interment will follow in Mt. Lebanon Cemetery, Tarrs. The family expresses appreciation to all the staff at RNC for their loving care of Joel. Memorials may be offered to St. Paul’s Evangelical Church in memory of Joel. Love Lasts Forever!
Probably one of the most knowledgeable and best Supervisors I ever dealt with. He will certainly be missed by the township for his many years of service. I first met Joel in 1976
Mike Walsh
May 16, 2025 | Cabot, PA | Acquaintance
First met Joel as a very young salesman in 1976. He was great to work with and taught me about municipal government. Probably one of the most knowledgeable supervisors I´ve ever met. Please accept my condolences and thoughts are with his family.
Mike Walsh
June 02, 2024 | Work
Joel was the sweetest man and neighbor, he would always talk to us when we went riding by on our horses in the evening. We just found out about his passing today, many sympathies to you Karen and to the rest of the family. May God provide you with peace and comfort during this very difficult time. Love and prayers, Terry, Kelly Jo and Montanna Trout
Kelly Jo Trout
May 30, 2024 | Ruffsdale, PA | Neighbor
I will always hold a special place for Joel (my little worm)
Emmie Lou Ferree
May 25, 2024 | Other
Childhood friend and fellow Adventurer growing up in Ruffsdale Pa. Stood with me at my wedding. Rest in peace my Friend !
Bob Poole
May 24, 2024 | Friend
I remember Joel having nice cars prayers for the family
Diane Lee Brown Martray
May 24, 2024 | West Columbia, SC | Friend
Joel you will be missed by many, Love always Donna and Steve Sanders, Love Last forever.
Donna Sanders
May 24, 2024 | Scottdale, PA | Friend
Our deepest sympathies to the entire Sumter family. Joel was a terrific and dedicated public servant who served our community with distinction. He was our friend and he will be missed.
Chuck and Robin Moore
May 23, 2024 | Friend
So very sorry to hear of Joel's passing. We were friends from high school and long after. A good man who will be greatly missed by many. Our sympathy to his family.
David and Cheryl Krieger
May 23, 2024 | Friend