Joseph Hettinger

OBITUARY
Joseph Lee Hettinger
September 23, 1945 – June 9, 2025

Joseph Lee Hettinger, 79, of Groveport, Ohio, passed away peacefully on June 9, 2025. Born in Columbus, Ohio, on September 23, 1945, Joe was a proud graduate of Grove City High School, Class of 1964. Shortly after high school, he enlisted in the United States Navy in July 1964. He completed recruit training, MM “A” School, and Nuclear Power School before proudly serving on the USS Long Beach and USS Constellation during three WESTPAC cruises to Vietnam. Joe departed from active duty after a distinguished naval career and continued serving in the Naval Reserves until his retirement as Chief Machinist Mate on December 14, 1991.
Joe was a devout Catholic and a long-time member of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal Church, where he actively volunteered in many capacities, helping the church community and those in need. He was a proud member of the Knight of Columbus, a fraternal organization empowering Catholic men to live their faith at home, in their parish, at work and in their community. His life was defined by his unwavering commitment to family, faith, and service to others.
Outside of his military and community work, Joe had a deep passion for life’s simple pleasures. He was an avid sports fan, especially enjoying watching games with family and friends. Joe loved spending time outdoors, whether it was fishing, hunting, camping, or sailing. He found peace on the water, and he enjoyed sharing these activities with those he loved. Joe was happiest when surrounded by family and friends, sharing his skills to fix, build, and restore, always offering a helping hand to others in need.
Joe is preceded in death by his parents, Vincent and E. Maxine Hettinger, and his brother Michael F. Hettinger. He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, June E. (Lowe) Hettinger, and his children Joe Hettinger (Tracy), Jason Hettinger (Katie), Jared Hettinger (Tanya), Julie Hettinger-Turner (Jim), Jeanette Hunt (Brad), Jennifer Chelikowsky (Steve), John Hettinger; siblings, Mary L. Hettinger, Barbara A. Hettinger, Margaret S. Mayo, and James R. Hettinger; and his 25 cherished grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Family will receive friends on Saturday, June 14, 2025 from 4-7PM at SCHOEDINGER EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5360 E. Livingston Ave.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Church of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal on Monday, June 16, 2025, followed by burial at Saint Joseph Cemetery in Lockbourne, Ohio. In honor of Joe, flowers are welcome, and donations are accepted to Catholic Social Services in Joseph Hettinger’s honor.
May he rest in peace, knowing his legacy of love, service, and kindness will live on in all who knew him.

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