Joseph Hottinger

Joseph Elwood Hottinger, 68, a resident of Rockingham County, passed away on Monday, January 30, 2023, in his home.

Joe was born in Rockingham County on February 21, 1954, and was the son of the late Owen Winfred and Gladys Bynaker Hottinger. He was employed by Rockingham Poultry and Storemen Specialty where he worked with his father-in-law, Jennings Layman, brother-in-law, Eldon Layman, and father, Owen. Later, he owned and operated several businesses, including Joe's Gun Repair; Joke, Inc. as an independent truck driver; and Fat Daddies Hot Rods, where he worked with his sons, Travis and Kevin, restoring classic cars and trucks. He also started Hand to Hand, a ministry of Harrisonburg Mennonite Church, where he spent countless hours of his free time delivering furniture and household items to those in need. An avid hunter and fisherman, he traveled to Canada where he hunted moose, Montana where he hunted elk, and Jamacia where he went fishing. But his favorite hunting trips were with his sons and grandsons.

On July 14, 1973, he married Betty Jo Layman Hottinger who survives.

Also surviving are two sons, Travis Michael Hottinger and wife Molly; Kevin Owen Hottinger and wife Ashlie; daughter, Heather Jo Hottinger; grandchildren, Madison Hottinger, Owen Hottinger, Lexy Thacker, Alex Burrell, Raelyn Jo Hottinger; siblings, David Hottinger and wife Beverly; Everette Hottinger and wife Julie; Gerald Hottinger and wife Sharon; sister-in-law, Carolyn Layman; brother-in-law, Eldon Layman; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by a sister, Irene Thompson, and her husband, Dale, and father-in-law, Jennings Layman, and mother-in-law, Wilma Layman.

There will be an informal gathering for family and friends at Harrisonburg Mennonite Church on Friday, February 17, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 18, at 11:00 a.m., with Pastor Craig Maven officiating.

At his request, his body was cremated.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Harrisonburg Mennonite Church, 1552 South High Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22801, or Cornerstone Chapel, 650 Battlefield Pkwy SE, Leesburg, VA 20175.

Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.mcmullenfh.com

McMullen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.