Joseph K. Wilt

Joseph K. Wilt, 83, of Dover, passed away Sunday, October 18, 2026 at his home. He was the husband of Jane E. (Werner) Wilt with whom he shared 61 years of marriage on August 21, 1965.

A Celebration of Life Tribute Service will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, November 7, 2026 at Shiloh United Church of Christ, 2251 Willow Road, York. A visitation will be held from 10-11:00 AM Saturday at the Church. Private burial will be in Shiloh Union Cemetery. Heffner Funeral Chapel & Crematory, Inc., 1551 Kenneth Road, York is honored to serve the family.

Joe was born on May 7, 1943 in York, a son of the late J. Kenneth and Cora A. (Hess) Wilt. A 1961 graduate of William Penn Senior High School, Joe went on to graduate from Millersville University in 1965. During his time at Millersville, he distinguished himself as an accomplished athlete in both soccer and track and field. In honor of those achievements, he was inducted into the Millersville University Sports Hall of Fame.

Joe devoted his professional life to education. He began his career as an Industrial Arts Teacher at Edgar Fahs Smith Middle School, where he also served as a wrestling coach. Over the course of 35 years at the school, he guided and encouraged generations of students before his retirement. His knowledge and skill extended well beyond the classroom. Using his industrial arts and carpentry abilities, he designed and built his family home, a lasting reflection of both his craftsmanship and his devotion to those he loved. He was equally known to help others with household projects, and he had a knack for finding simple solutions to seemingly complex problems.

Outside of his work, Joe embraced life with enthusiasm. He coached youth sports and enjoyed All American Soap Box Derby events with his children. An avid golfer, Joe loved being outdoors, and he looked forward to his annual hunting trips at the cabin. When the weather was good, he could be found riding his jet skis or taking rides on his motorcycle, often browsing for treasure at yard sales. And he was never shy in showing his love of the Philadelphia Eagles. A standing member of numerous social clubs in York, Joe found fellowship and friendship.

In addition to his wife, Mr. Wilt is survived by a daughter, Crystal M. DellOrfano of York; two sons, Steven J. and wife Alison Wilt of Garnet Valley, PA and Michael D. Wilt and Lisa Workinger of York; five grandchildren, Ella and Chase Wilt, Emily Wilt, Jenna and husband Ben Creighton, and Matthew DellOrfano; two great grandchildren, John and Caroline Creighton; and two sisters, Patricia Zarfoss of York and Wanda Bentzel of Dover.

Joe will be remembered for his quiet strength, steady confidence, and devotion to his family. He was humble, kind, and never hesitated to use his talents to help others - a cherished husband, father, brother, grandfather, G-Pa, and friend.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice & Community Care, 235 St. Charles Way, Ste. 250, York, PA 17402 or to Shiloh UCC, 2251 Willow Rd., York, PA 17408.