Joseph M. Bethel, 76, of Beaver Township passed away on Monday morning, September 19, 2016 at his home.
Born in Fishtown on December 18, 1939, he was the son of the late Thomas and Anna (Logan) Bethel. He graduated from high school in Fishtown, and served in the US Air Force for several years. After being honorably discharged, he worked on tug boats, and was later employed as a docking pilot in Philadelphia for 20 years.
Joe liked to build things and tinker around the house. He was interested in light houses, and over the years acquired a large collection of them. He also enjoyed taking cross country trips with his wife, before his health began to decline.
He will be greatly missed by his loving wife of 21 years, Jean M. (Dow) Bethel; daughters, Janet Saklad and husband Larry, Philadelphia; Trish Dow, Bloomsburg; Susan Jones, Exeter NH; 12 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; sisters, Marie Bailey and husband Robert, New Hope; Sissy Dailey, Fishtown; Dorothy Boltz, Furlong; brother, Edward Bethel, Elkins Park; and numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Thomas, John, and James Bethel.
In keeping with Joe’s wishes, there will be no viewing or funeral service.
Online messages of comfort can be sent to condolences@hellerfuneral.com