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Joseph Wilfinger
07/02/2024

Joseph “Joe the Hat” Wilfinger, 85, of Whitehall, passed away on July 2nd. He was the son of the late Joseph and Violet (Leinberry) Wilfinger and husband of his late wife Nora for 50 years.
Joe was an Emmaus High School graduate, an Air Force veteran, a retired carpenter from Bethlehem Steel, a commercial artist, and an auctioneer. He is survived by his daughter Lea and her husband Greg Unger, grandchildren Gregory Unger, and Sarah Grossman (Jack), and three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings and their spouses; Judith Bogert (Francis), Rebecca DeMott (Richard), William Wilfinger (Jayne) and Robert Wilfinger (Sally).
Following an organitarian lifestyle, Joe was deeply committed to his family, the Native American culture, organized labor, and community activism. He was recognized for the turtle medicine bag that he wore reverently. He dedicated his life to volunteering for various organizations, making the world a better place for all. Some of his involvements included the Turtle Clan of Lenape Tribe-activist and community speaker, PA Humanities Council, Human Relations Award-2004, Whitehall Historical-V. P. Emeritus, L.V. Labor Council-Civil Rights committee chair, Sergeant at Arms, and “Watermelon Slicer”, SOAR, art designer for the USW Voice of 2600-three state awards, Historic Bethlehem-Steel History, Environmental & Recreation-Whitehall Township, Weston Price Foundation, Citizens Police Academy/Crime Watch, Scout Master-Troup 79, Merit Badge Counselor, Parliament of Religions, and L.V. Active Life. He truly was “Made in America”!
A celebration of life will be held from 12:00 to 4:00 pm on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at the American Club of Coplay, 300 Cherry Street, Coplay, PA.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to an organization mentioned above or to one that lights a fire in your own heart. Arrangements by Nicos C. Elias Funeral Home, Allentown.