Joseph O. Elwell Jr. passed away peacefully on Sept. 16, 2026. He was 79.
Born May 23, 1947, Joe was the son of Joseph Oliver Sr. and Emma Elwell of Cape May. He graduated from Lower Cape May Regional High School in 1966 and entered the University of Akron, earning a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, followed by an MBA.
In 1972, he entered the U.S. Army Reserves, where he served for 23 years, retiring as a lieutenant colonel. In 1972, he joined the Army Corps of Engineers/Pittsburgh District, where he had an esteemed career for 41 years. He was also the owner of Elwell’s Engineers and Surveyors, from 1973 to 2023, serving local communities throughout Ohio and Pennsylvania.
Joe had a lifelong love of the outdoors and serving others. Beginning in Cub Scouts in 1955, Boy Scouts was an important part of his life.
He obtained the rank of Eagle Scout in 1964. He joined the Order of the Arrow in 1964, obtaining his Brotherhood in 1965 and his Vigil in 1966.
Joe remained active in Scouting and the OA, mentoring young men and leaders, well into his golden years. Some of his fondest memories were the years he volunteered at the National Boy Scout Jamboree.
He is lovingly remembered by his wife of 54 years, Linda; their children Betsy (Patrick) Tabatcher and Adam Elwell; grandchildren Abigail and Brody Elwell; sister-in-law Bonnie (Donnie) Baughman and nephew Jaret Baughman.
Burial will be held privately at Western Reserve National Cemetery. Arrangements by Skirpan Funeral Home, Brownsville, Pa. Visit skirpanfuneralhome.com for further information.
