Joseph "Joe" William Witt, 68, passed away unexpectedly on October 20, 2015, from a heart attack. Joe was married to Darlene, the love of his life, for 41 years. He was a respected wildlife biologist and ecologist, a civil servant of 33 years in the U.S. Department of the Interior with both the Bureau of Land Management and Fish and Wildlife Service. He proudly served his country as a member of the Marine Corps, receiving a Purple Heart for his service during the Vietnam War. Following retirement, Joe enjoyed teaching as an adjunct professor with Shepherd University and Northern Virginia Community College. An avid birder, reader, and naturalist, he enjoyed spending time with his family, pets, and being outdoors.

Joe is survived by his wife Darlene Witt (Branigan); son Jonathan Witt, husband of Kristen Baker Witt; daughter Jessica Dudley, wife of Scott Dudley. He is also survived by his beloved "grand-dogs," Chelsea, Hems, and Izzy. He is predeceased by his father, William Witt, and mother, Dorothy Witt (Keister).

Friends and family are invited to attend a memorial service for Joe at the Charles F. Snyder, Jr. Funeral Home, 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz, PA 17543 on Tuesday October 27, 2015, with Rev. Kenny Newsome officiating. The family will begin welcoming guests at 10:00 AM; the service will begin at 11:00 AM.