Joe Fetchel, Jr.

Joe Fetchel Jr., 89, died peacefully on July 20, 2026.

Born in Shinnston, West Virginia, to the late Joe Sr. and Mary Rose (Lopetrone) Fetchel, Joe grew up in Dearborn, Michigan, where he graduated from Dearborn High School.

After serving in the United States Army, Joe continued his education at UCLA where he received a Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics. He made significant contributions as an esteemed software engineer, notably designing software for the NASA space shuttle.

Joe lived in many states before finally settling in New Jersey with his family. He worked at Unisys in Fort Monmouth before his well-deserved retirement.

In his spare time, Joe enjoyed playing cribbage, gambling, and reading.

Joe was predeceased by his beloved wife, Leta (Bowers) Fetchel; and his brothers, John and Sam Fetchel.

He is survived by his children, Robin Wolk (spouse Vincent) and Michael Fetchel (spouse Victoria); his grandchildren, Carolyn Fetchel, and Andrew and Greg Wolk; sisters Joanne Bucknum (spouse Vic) and Marie Bitonti; brother-in-law Brian Bowers (spouse Penny); as well as many extended relatives and friends.

A memorial mass will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, July 24, 2026 at Our Lady of Mercy Roman Catholic Church, 122 High Street, South Bound Brook, NJ 08880.

Entombment to immediately follow at Resurrection Burial Park Mausoleum in Piscataway.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Joe’s memory to the Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation.

All arrangements are under the care and supervision of Hagan-Chamberlain Funeral Home.