Graveside memorial services will be held for Joe on Wednesday, April 9, 2025 at 1:00 P.M. at the Hillside Cemetery in State Center. Full military rights will be provided by the combined V.F.W. and American Legion from the surrounding area. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Joe’s name may be directed to his family for a later designation. For additional information or to send a condolence to the family please visit www.mitchellfh.com or call 641-844-1234.

Born on April 21st, 1935, in State Center, he was the son of Alva and Catherine (Bernard) Ethington. He graduated from the State Center High School in 1952, and soon enlisted to serve our country honorably in the United States Air Force. Joe served eight years, with four of those years in active duty during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged in 1964.

Joe was united in marriage to Phyllis Bernard on July 3rd, 1971, at the Elim Lutheran Church in Marshalltown. He was employed for many years at Fisher Controls until retiring in 1999. He was a member of the U.A.W. Local 893. Joe was also a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in State Center, and the State Center American Legion Post #122.

Left to cherish his memory is Phyllis, his loving wife of 53 years, step grandsons John McKenna and Greg Paglia. Stepdaughter-in-law, Jeanne Mass. Many nieces and nephews whose lives he was a big part of.

In death, he rejoined his parents, brothers Bernie, Dale, Charles, Donnie and sister Doris. Stepdaughter Cindy Nicholson and stepson Jay Poling.