Joseph J. Stenger

Joe was born January 5, 1929 in Buffalo, N.Y. to John J. and Margaret (Flynn) Stenger. Raised in Buffalo, he graduated from Kensington High School and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps at the age of 17. Joe attained the rank of Sergeant while serving during the WW II era from 1946-1948 with duty in Guam and China. Joe began his distinguished 35 year career in the Buffalo Police Department in 1952 serving as a patrolman, a detective, and retired as a Lieutenant in 1987. Continuing his education, he earned a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from Buffalo State College, now known as Buffalo State University. He also did course work towards a PhD at the University at Buffalo. Upon retirement from the Buffalo Police Department, Joe worked as a licensed court reporter and realtor. Although busy with his large family and career, Joe was active in numerous civic, fraternal and club including: U.S. China Marine and 1st Division Association; American Legion Post Troop I-665, where he served as the Post Commander.; VFW Posts 2472 and 7545; Knights of Columbus Council 184; Buffalo Police Athletics Association; W.A.R.P., Depew, N.Y. and 40 and 8 Voiture 51, Cheektowaga, N.Y.

Joe was an avid reader, enjoyed researching family genealogy, a longtime fan of the New York Yankees, St. Louis Cardinals and those Buffalo Bills. He also enjoyed running, swimming, golf, hunting and fishing.

Joe is survived by five children: Jim (Tracy) Stenger, Marty P. Stenger, Mark (Cheryl) Stenger, Susan (Bochnann) Stenger, Scott (Mary Ann) Stenger, two step- children, Bruce Gibney, and Patricia (Pinkard) Gibney; as well as 11 cherished grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren and many loving cousins, nephews, nieces and friends.

He is predeceased by wives: Margaret (Ryan) Stenger and Joyce Gibney; sons: Joseph J. (Marianne) Stenger II and infant baby Stenger; daughter: Sharon (Robert) Harrison, grandson: Justin R. Stenger; sister: Marion (late John) French; brothers: John J. (late Janet) Stenger and Henry (late Grace) Pauly.

Prayer and burial services will be held at the German & French Roman Catholic Cemetery, Cheektowaga, NY at the convenience of the family. A Celebration of Life gathering with family and friends will be held and announced at a later date.

Memorial contributions in Joe’s memory may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care Buffalo, P.O. Box 590 Buffalo, NY 14240., (hospicebuffalo. com) (716-686-8090),

On-line condolences may be made at larsontimkofuneralhome.com.

Arrangements by David J. Dengler, LARSON- TIMKO Funeral Home.