Joseph “Joe” William Witt

Joseph “Joe” William Witt, 68, passed away unexpectedly Oct. 20, 2015, from a heart attack.

Joe was married to Darlene, the love of his life, for 41 years.

He was a respected wildlife biologist and ecologist, a civil servant of 33 years in the U.S. Department of the Interior with both the Bureau of Land Management and Fish and Wildlife Service.

He proudly served his country as a member of the Marine Corps, receiving a Purple Heart for his service during the Vietnam War.

Following retirement, Joe enjoyed teaching as an adjunct professor with Shepherd University and Northern Virginia Community College. An avid birder, reader, and naturalist, he enjoyed spending time with his family, pets, and being outdoors.

Joe is survived by his wife, Darlene Witt (Branigan); son, Jonathan Witt, husband of Kristen Baker Witt; and daughter, Jessica Dudley, wife of Scott Dudley. He is also survived by his beloved “grand-dogs,” Chelsea, Hems, and Izzy.

He is predeceased by his father, William Witt; and mother, Dorothy Witt (Keister).

A memorial service was held at the Charles F. Snyder Jr. Funeral Home, Lititz, Pennsylvania, on Tuesday, Oct. 27, with the Rev. Kenny Newsome officiating.

To share a memory, visit www.snyderfuneralhome. com.