Joel Richard Garver
Joel (aka “Joe,” “Shorty,” “Little Joe”) Richard Garver, 90, of Troy Township, passed away peacefully early Monday morning, Oct. 23, 2023, at Ohman Family Living at Briar.
He was born in Marion, Ohio, on Jan. 25, 1933, to the late Lester and Elaine (nee Baker) Garver.
Joe later married the love of his life and best friend, Mary Lou Whitlam, on June 18, 1960.
He grew up in Mt. Gilead, Ohio, and graduated from Mt. Gilead High School in 1951. While in high school, Joe was a Boy Scout and received the Order of the Arrow. Joe then attended The Ohio State University before deciding to work for the Mt. Gilead Parks Division. In time, he was transferred to Punderson State Park in Geauga County.
After a few years, Joe began working as an operator and finish roller at Cary-Ziegler Excavating, A.J. Ronyak and Shloss Paving. Joe retired as an operating engineer after 44 years in Local #18.
Joe loved being in the woods, hunting and trapping. He especially liked to help with any nuisance trapping.
Joe also enjoyed reading and had a large library at home. He was a life member of the National Rifle Association, an Endowment Life Member of the Patriot Level Member of the National Rifle Association, and Life Member of the Ohio Trappers Association.
He served as the Assistant Scout Master of the Troy Township Troop and enjoyed taking his troop to Pennsylvania for survival hiking and camping trips.
Per Joe’s wishes, a private celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Best Funeral Home, 15809 Madison Road, Middlefield, 440-632-0818. Online condolences may be sent at www.bestfunerals.com.
