Joel Charles Hockinson, 88, of Port Matilda, passed away on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at Juniper Village in State College. Born on March 19, 1938, in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, he was the son of the late Melvin Charles and Alice (Warner) Hockinson. On December 20, 1959, he married his high school sweetheart, Linda (McCandless) Hockinson, who survives at home after sharing 66 years of marriage together.
Joel was a 1956 graduate of Hollidaysburg High School. He went on to earn his Bachelor’s Degree from Penn State University in 1960, where he was a member of Tau Phi Delta. He proudly served his country in the United States Army from November 1960 until he was honorably discharged in November 1962, serving as an artillery officer in Ft. Sill, Oklahoma. He then took a position as a Forester with the US Forest Service, where he remained until his retirement in 1994 after 32 years of service.
In addition to his wife, Linda, he is survived by their daughter, Julie Ann Hubler (Greg) of Morrisdale, seven grandchildren: Stormy Chalmers, Josh Mariacher, Benjamin Hubler, Zachary Hockinson, Zoe Hockinson, Patrick Schneiter, and Jennifer Schneiter, and two great grandchildren. Also surviving is a sister, Lori Hunsinger (Tom) of Denver, Colorado, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Along with his parents, he was predeceased by two sons, Craig W. Hockinson, and Jeff C. Hockinson, and a brother, Douglas Hockinson.
Before settling in Port Matilda, Joel and Linda lived in multiple states including Oklahoma, West Virginia, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and New Hampshire. Joel enjoyed traveling, most notably to Costa Rica, Turkey, Ireland, and going on Danube River Cruises. He enjoyed playing golf and was an avid Pittsburgh Pirates fan. More than anything, he treasured the time that he spent with his family.
Family and friends will be received on Friday, April 10, 2026, from 12:30 – 1:00 PM, at Wetzler Funeral Service, Inc., 206 N. Spring Street, Bellefonte. A memorial service will begin at 1:00 PM, at the funeral home, with Dr. Peter Cannizzaro officiating. Burial services will be held privately at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Saint Paul’s United Methodist Church, 109 McAllister St. State College, PA 16801.
Online condolences may be made to the family at www.wetzlerfuneralhome.com