Donald Joseph Inge

Donald Joseph Inge, 64, of Hampton, Virginia passed away on August 26th, 2025, in Indianapolis at IU University Hospital. Joe was born on December 29th, 1960, in Richmond, Virginia to Donald and Gabriele (Denninger) Inge. Joe grew up in the Tidewater area of Virginia working with his dad and happily enjoying the Virginia outdoors, exploring, hunting, and fishing the Back Bay, rivers, and Chesapeake Bay area. A lifelong native of Virginia, Joe was equally at home in Indiana with his wife, Marianne, making new friends easily and helping anyone in need. Joe was quick-witted and loved a good story. He was a passionate student of history and all things new. Fun fact: Joe was a descendant of a Parke County Sheriff, George B. Inge (1861-1865). As a friend once said, "Joe was known for his big heart and can-do attitude. His jovial spirit and infectious smile uplifted everyone around him." Joe was grateful for and proud of his education. He was a proud graduate of Longwood College with a Bachelor's degree in physics, and Old Dominion University with a Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, and a master's degree in engineering management. Joe's career spanned many projects for the United States Navy and private enterprise, such as: the development of the first unmanned sea surface vessel, command and control systems; electrical engineering and assembly of rockets in Chincoteague Island, Virginia; and installation of secure satellite communications in support of terrorist trials at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. He was instrumental in the development of innovative satellite and antennae system services for our military. Joe loved his family, children, and grandchildren. 'Papa' as he was called by his grandchildren, was always sure to put a smile on their faces and they made sure he always knew that, "Papa is the greatest." He was often found in deep and lively conversation over root beer served at his Tiki bar. Price per root beer held to a reasonable two acorns. He was an avid fan of his beloved Atlanta Braves and Miami Dolphins. Joe was preceded in death by his father, Donald Joseph Inge; father-in-law, Joe Woody Sr. He is survived by his wife, Marianne Woody; mother, Gabriele Denninger Inge; his son, Nick Inge (Kristen), his daughter, Alexandria Marie Woody, and son Jeremy Inge (partner Tiffany); his sisters, Debbie Inge (Mark Buchardt), and Mathilde Inge (Mark Fackler); brothers-in-law, Joe Woody Jr. (Cheryl); Mike Woody (Angie); and mother-in-law, Sue Woody. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Valorie and Blair Inge, daughters of Nick and Kristen, as well as a grandchild expected in December to Jeremy and Tiffany. In addition, he leaves behind many beloved nephews and nieces. Though we mourn his passing, please gather to share memories and laughter at a celebration of Joe's life to be held on September 14th, 2025, from 4pm to 7pm. We will gather at The Inkwell at 114 N. Jefferson St., Rockville, IN 47872. Family and friends will also gather for a celebration of Joe's life in Virginia on September 21, 2025, from 1pm to 3pm at Saint John's Church, 813 West Nine Mile Road, Highland Springs, Virginia 23075. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Foundation for Navy Seal Veterans. This was a charity near and dear to Joe's heart. https://sealvet.org/donate