Joel Michael Hunter

Joel Michael Hunter left this world on October 23, 2026. He was born June 9, 1955. Joel was a passionate man who loved life. He leaves behind a large legacy of education, kindness, empathy, acceptance, and unconditional love.

Throughout his time on this earth, Joel made it a better place through a life long career as an agronomist with Penn State, teaching the tenders of our land, near and far, how to care for the soils, crops, animals, and land with love and preservation. It was his passion and he educated so many, so well. A memorable achievement for him was being the "Hops Man" at Spragues Brewery for many years. He loved to grow those hops that gave many a great beer and a greater memory.

But beyond this life of care and service to others, Joel Hunter was a proud family man. Together, with the love of his life, Bonnie, his wife of 45 years, he tended to his greatest garden, his five children, Ivy (Dave), Sage (Jezebel), Dahlia, Jacob (Jessica), and Job (Cassidy). The unconditional love and support that together they poured into their children was, is, and will remain, unmatched.

Joel was preceded in death by his parents, Burdette and Phyllis Hunter, and a brother, Jeff Hunter.

He is survived by many wonderful friends whom he met along the way through his musical talent of playing the mandolin and for whom he was so grateful. He is further survived by a large loving family including his brothers, Scott (Sherri), Jim (Sally), Jack (Betsy), his sister Juliann, and his sister-in-law Rhondda Waddell, along with his beloved grandchildren, Ethan, Samuel, Hana, Oscar, Paissia, Shem, and Reef. To know Joel was to love him and that was an honor he did not take lightly.

While Joel Hunter was many admirable things in this life, an educator, a PVC3 with the United States Navy, and a life-long scholar, his biggest and proudest accomplishment, where he hung his heart, was caring for his family who he loved dearly and who loved him dearly right back.

Rest easy now Joel, we have it from here and will keep your amazing legacy alive, honoring the abundance of love and joy you provided to all every day.

A Celebration of Joel's life will be held from 3-5 PM on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at Stainbrook Park, 21762 German Rd., Meadville.

Memorial contributions may be made to American Parkinson Disease Association, PO Box 61420, Staten Island, NY 10306.

Arrangements by STEPHEN P. MIZNER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 404 CHESTNUT ST., MEADVILLE.

Share a memory of condolence at www.miznerfuneralhome.com