Joseph A. Stinger

Joseph Arthur Stinger of Markleysburg, Pennsylvania and Kansas City, Missouri, unexpectedly retired his time on this earth on July 3, 2025 at the age of 79. He was at one of his favorite places in the world – his river property in Maryland.

A son and 12th child of Philip and Mildred Stinger, Joe was crowned "First Baby of 1946" in the Brownsville Telegraph's annual New Year's baby contest. He was born at 12:25 a.m. on Jan. 2.

Joe leaves behind his beloved wife, Vivian, his eldest daughter, Nicole, her husband, John and grandson Auggie, and his youngest daughter, Amanda, her husband, Ian, and granddaughters Sylvia and Stella. He is also survived by two siblings Emil Stinger (Geraldine) and Wanda Field, both of Uniontown, PA, as well as many nieces, nephews and other family members and many, many friends.

Preceded in death are his parents and siblings Viola Mildred (George), Clara Bohatch, Eli Stinger (Carol), Walter Raymond Stinger, Cleota Grant, Ruth Prugh, Doris Wolfe, Louise Pascale, Thelma Arneson, Shirley Ann Stinger, and Philip "Bill" Stinger

Joe was an expert fisherman and hunter, and an overall true outdoorsman. For those who wish to honor his memory, donations can be made to Jr. Fike & Joe Stinger Memorial Youth Fishing Rodeo by mail to:

Mountain Loggers Group Memo: Kids Fishing Rodeo (458 Old Morgantown Rd Friendsville, MD 21531).

Donations may also be made in trust to his daughter by Venmo to @Amanda-Stinger-3. Joe loved this event and "acted like a kid" himself while interacting with the children. The goal is to get local youth outside and teach them how to fish a creek, about conservation, stream etiquette and just enjoying the moment.

Joe was a veteran of the Vietnam war and served honorably in our special forces as an Airborne Ranger. Joe was awarded many awards and special recognition during his time in the service, including The Valorous Unit Award, which is the Army's second highest unit award and is awarded to units that display extraordinary heroism in combat.

After the war, Joe went on to become a journeyman boilermaker working on the railroad. During this time, Joe also received his associates degree and went on to graduate from Harvard University's Trade Union program.

It wasn't long being a skilled tradesmen in a union environment that his natural leadership skills let way to union leadership. With his growing career, Joe transferred from Pennsylvania to Kansas City, Missouri, where he and Viv raised to their girls from elementary school onwards.

After years of dedicated service working tirelessly for the members of the International Brotherhood of Boilemakers, Joe retired as International Vice President of the Western States in 2005. Joe also served on many boards, including the Brotherhood Bank and Trust, Boilermaker Pension, and the Railroad Retirement Board.

After retirement, Joe and Viv enjoyed spending their time between their homes and communities in Florida (fishing Lake Okeechobee), Kansas City (fishing, Smithville Lake, and spending time with kids/grandkids) and Pennsylvania (fishing any freshwater creek, brooks, or the river). Joe especially enjoyed his annual trips to Alaska for salmon fishing where he cultivated some of the most endearing friendships.

Above all, Joe absolutely adored his grandkids Sylvia, Stella and Auggie. He attended every sporting game, every school event, and kept every drawing. He was the most dedicated and fun Pappy. His relationship with each of them was extremely special.

Joe was a man of integrity and hard work. He was a true gentleman, a charmer and a community builder. He was funny and his stories would hold a room. He would do anything for just about anyone, including those he didn't know. He had beautiful sky-blue eyes and a bright, well used smile. He will be profoundly missed by many.

Visitation will be held in the DONALD R. CRAWFORD FUNERAL HOME, FARMINGTON, PA, on Wednesday, July 9 from 2 to 4 PM, and 6 to 8 PM. (4222 National Pike, Farmington, PA 15437). Funeral services will be held beginning at 1 PM on Thursday, July 10, also at Crawford funeral home. Following the service will be a burial at Shady Grove Cemetery with veteran honors. (17840 WV-26. Bruceton Mills West Virginia 26525)

A meal will be held at the Markleysburg Township Firehall immediately following (100 Fireman Dr, Markleysburg, PA 15459).