Joseph H. Stephen

Joseph H. Stephen, 80, passed away peacefully at home on July 22, 2014 following a 2 ½ year battle with bladder cancer. Born in Barnesville, OH Joe was the youngest of 13 children of Milton and Anna (Jeffers) Stephen. Schooled at Barnesville High and Kent State University, Joe retired from the Hoover Co. in 1996 as superintendent at the Industrial Park plant. At one time he also worked with Berry Realtors and brokered his own agency, Eden House Realty. Joe served in the Marine Corp during the Korean conflict. He was a member of the McKinley Eagles #2370, State Parks Club, The Wilderness Center and several nature and birders clubs, plus spay-neuter organizations. He enjoyed piloting hot air balloons, trips to many countries, casino trips, playing cards, working in his butterfly garden and golfing with his brothers-in-law. His competitive spirit, love of nature and sense of humor will be missed. Along with his parents he was preceded in death by his brothers, Rolland, Clarence, Hubert, and Garold and sisters, Marjorie Carpenter, Madeline Mellinger, Bertha Carpenter, Mildred Hardesty, Wanda Devitt and Virginia Gallagher. Joe is survived by his wife of 56 years, Nancy and his furry kids, Jazzy, Jinx, Bubba, Cali, Herbie and Grace; sister, Thelma Froehlich of Barnesville; brother, William Clyde (Martha) Stephen of Winona, OH; sisters-in-law, Patricia Laps of Perry Twp., Barbara (Carl) Nelson of Jackson Twp., Shirley Menegay of The Villages, FL; and brother-in-law Don (Paula) Willis of Fellsmere, FL; plus many nieces and nephews. A special thanks to Crossroads Hospice for their compassionate care. Joe's wishes were respected that there be no calling hours or services. Private burial was held at Sunset Hills Burial Park. Memorial donations may be made in his name to SNAP (Spay-Neuter Assistance Program) c/o Animal Attic, 3124 Ninth St. S.W. Canton, OH 44710 or a charity of your choice. Messages of comfort and support may be sent to the family at www.arnoldlynch.com. Paquelet & Arnold-Lynch Funeral Home & Crematory (330) 833-4839