Joel Huntington

Joel David Huntington, Elder son of Joel and Lynn Huntington, died November 14, 2019 in Brawley, California after a long illness. Raised a Presbyterian in West Virginia, he was a forty-year member of West Hartford First Church of Christ Congregational, UCC; and he belonged to Boy Scout Troop 12. In his 20's he served in the USAF. There he learned airframe maintenance and upon discharge he worked for Kaman and Sikorsky. Later he volunteered for Cross America '86, a local group that crossed the country coast to coast on horseback – soliciting funds for charitable groups. David also canvassed door to door in Connecticut for environmental groups. He crisscrossed the country driving an 18-wheeler for a period of time as well. He was cast as an extra in the movie based on Jon Krakouer's book, Into the Wild. He was a self-taught herbalist, and an eager student of the natural world. He transcribed love poems written in script by his great-great-great grandfather, a nineteenth century steamboat captain on the Ohio River; then produced not only a book, but also a recording of the poems. His many experiences coincide with a favorite J.R.R. Tolkien quote of his, "Not all those who wander are lost." Theology, apologetics, and other seminary subjects occupied many of his hours in serious study. For the last eleven years he was Pastor Dave, beloved by his church in Slab City, California. He lived simply and was known for his compassionate counseling and selfless giving. Pre-deceased by wife Elizabeth Bunnell Huntington, David is survived by his parents, his daughter Alexandra Huntington-Ofner Mikowski of Cortland NY, brother John Robert (JR) Huntington of Stafford CT, sister Susan Huntington Kint of Gettysburg, PA, and nephews Jacob Mierzejewski of New Britain CT, Tyler Kint of Gettysburg PA, and Benjaimin Huntington of Stafford CT, and niece Julie Kint of Gettysburg PA.