He was born January, 24th 1955 in Wayland, NY to Karl and Yvonne (Drake) Stilson. Upon graduating high school, he enlisted in the US Navy serving aboard the Survey Ship USNS Harkness, and the USS MacDonough DDG-39. He worked as an apprentice plumber in Florida and at the VA in Bath, NY after his military service. He attended college at Alfred State in Alfred, NY where he met his future wife, Colette. They were married at Curé of Ars in Merrick, NY on July, 3rd 1989. He retired from Wegmans in 2021 after 21 years of service.
Joe loved gardening, growing both flowers and vegetables. He was very successful, not just growing enough for his family, but freely and generously gave away his harvest to friends, family, and neighbors. He also loved watching classic movies, westerns, and documentaries on TV. He donated money to a number of Catholic organizations that help the poor and the needy. Joe enjoyed going on long car rides and visiting with family and friends. Even though he would never admit it, he loved his dogs Bud d., Whoster d., Charlie, and Dany.
Joe was predeceased by his parents Karl and Yvonne Stilson.
He is survived by his wife Colette (Brasacchio), children Bill Stilson and Hannah Love-Sokal, siblings Mary Ann (Charles Flansberg), Theresa (David Fusco), Karl Stilson, Evelin Pardington, Louise Stilson, Audrey (Ned Borger), Lucy Stilson (Bill) and many nieces and nephews.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, May 17, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Alvah Halloran & Son Funeral Home, 2125 Chili Ave, Rochester, New York 14624. A funeral mass will occur on Saturday, May 18, 2024 at 10:00 AM at St. Pius X Church, 3010 Chili Ave., Rochester, NY 14624. Inurnment will take place in Bath National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Aurora House of Spencerport, NY and/or the Vincent House of Wayland, NY.
