In loving memory of Joseph Willam Hangartner, who departed this earthly world on Saturday, May 21, 2022, at the age of 78. He was born to Hans Joseph and Katherine Virginia Hangartner on Feb. 7, 1944.
Joe spent a few of his early years in the Willapa Valley, then moved with the family to Centralia, where he attended Centralia High School. After high school, he entered the U.S. Army and spent time in the infantry in Vietnam. Upon discharge, he returned to Centralia.
He married Elizabeth Hangartner, and they had one child, Dena Maree. He later divorced and eventually married Kay Smith. Joe had three stepchildren from that marriage, Scott White, Connie (White) Pitcock and Cheryl (White) Common.
Joe went to work for the Centralia Fire Department, where his career spanned 26 years serving the citizens of Centralia. He also operated a business, “Joe’s Backhoe and Dozing” on the side for many years.
He tended to the family farm in Lincoln Creek, and prior to becoming a fireman, he worked for McKinnell Tractor as a diesel mechanic. He was a loyal and hardworking man, but he also loved his play time, including Jeep racing with the Rough Riders Jeep Club, hunting deer and elk with his buddies, and ATV riding.
He retired from the fire department in 1993 and his wife Kay passed away in 2005. After her passing, Joe eventually moved to Conconully, Washington, in 2007, where he spent the last 15 years of his life.
He, and his longtime companion, Nancy Gill of Conconully, spent many times traveling to Reno and Las Vegas. Joe and Nancy loved both traveling and gambling.
Those that knew Joe know that he loved to have a few beers. His favorite saying at the bar was “just one more, then throw me out.” Of course, the bartenders knew that would be said several times prior to him leaving and no one ever threw him out.
With his big dimples and coy smile, Joe was a friend to everyone. He would give you the shirt off his back if he thought he could help you. He and Kay always gave money to those less fortunate and fostered many children throughout the world with their donations through charitable organizations.
Joe is preceded in death by his parents Hans and Katherine, his brothers Hans and James, and a sister Marianne. He is now reunited with his beloved wife Kay.
He is survived by his daughter Dena and stepchildren Scott (Sara) White, of Oakville, and Connie and Cheryl, of Centralia. He also leaves behind several grandchildren, his companion Nancy, his sister-in-law Judy Newbury and his very close nephew, Brian Massingham.
A celebration of life has been scheduled for Joe Hangartner, on Sunday, July 17, 2022 . It will be held from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Centralia Legion. Come have a drink on Joe.
To view the obituary, please go to chronline.com/obituaries.
