Joseph H. Hibberd

Joseph H. Hibberd, Jr., age 73 of Stillwater, died Sunday, May 26, 2024 at his home.

Joe was born on January 12, 1951 in Bethlehem, PA to Joseph and Jeanne Hibberd. He grew up in Pennsylvania and graduated from Henderson Senior High in West Chester. Following high school, Joe enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in the Vietnam War. Upon his return to civilian life, he attended Ferris State College in Grand Rapids, MI and earned a Bachelor's degree. Joe continued his education at Western Michigan University where he earned his Master's degree.

Joe was united in marriage to Susan July on August 28, 1982 at First United Methodist Church in St. Joseph, MI, and the couple was blessed with two daughters, Allison and Jessica. The family resided in Charlotte, MI, prior to moving to Stillwater in 1989. Joe worked hard to be a good provider for his family. He was employed as a Registered Sanitarian for Ramsey County, and throughout his career he was awarded the Minnesota Sanitarian of the Year in 2001, served as the President and Past President of the Minnesota Environmental Health Association, and was a Diplomate with the American Association of Sanitarians. Joe retired from his position with Ramsey County in 2015.

Joe's greatest joy in life was his family. He was proud of his military service and was an avid race car enthusiast. Joe and his two best friends owned and drove for their rally racing team, Bottom Line Racing. Joe also had a passion for ham radio and took it upon himself to provide training for those seeking a ham radio license and checked the emergency communication equipment at Lakeview Hospital every week. During his lifetime, Joe was delighted at the chance of flying in a helicopter and driving a race car. He was a member of First United Methodist Church of Stillwater, Stillwater American Legion Post 48, Stillwater VFW Post 323, and the Bald Eagle Sportsmen's Association.

Joe will remain in the hearts of his wife of 41 years Sue; daughters Allison and Jessica (Suzi); grandson Logan; and many friends and extended relatives. He is preceded in death by his parents Joseph Sr. and Jeanne Hibberd.

A memorial service to celebrate Joe's life will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, June 14, 2024 at First United Methodist Church, 813 W Myrtle St., Stillwater. Visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00 PM on Thursday, June 13, 2024 at the Simonet Funeral Home, and one hour prior to the service on Friday at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Stillwater's First United Methodist Church.