Joseph Topinka Obituary

Joseph W. Topinka Jr., 63, of Bedford, died on Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2025, at Canterbury Place in Pittsburgh, after a lengthy illness. He was born on June 28, 1962, in Wilkinsburg, a son of the late Joseph W. Topinka Sr. and Shirley (Reed) Topinka. On April 28, 1996, in Parsons, WV, he married Debra (Rutkowsky) Topinka, and she survives, along with three stepchildren: Jude Williams and wife, Leigh Anne, of Mt. Pleasant, Tessie Williams and fiance, Edward Swick, of Derry, and Justin Williams of Bedford; five step-grandchildren: Jada, Andrew, and Faith Williams, Colby Delgross, and Isabelle Swick; a great-step-grandson on the way, Waylon; and a brother, Mark Topinka and wife, Debbie, of Irwin. Joseph resided in Tampa, FL, before moving back to Pennsylvania, where he lived in Irwin until moving to Bedford in 2002. He owned and operated JTE Electric for 36 years. He was affiliated with Bedford Bible Church and a former member, usher, and deacon at Bedford Presbyterian Church. The proudest moment of Joseph's life was the day he was baptized and professed his faith. Joseph's hobbies included being a Civil War living historian and Civil War reenacting. He was known for his General George Custer impression and visiting Civil War and French and Indian War historical sites. He loved West Virginia and enjoyed spending time with his wife on Cheat River, hiking the mountain on his property, and planting trees. Joseph was also a muscle car enthusiast and restored several cars throughout his life. He spent time volunteering with the community dinners every Tuesday evening and was known for his silly behavior. He enjoyed being a grandfather and playing with his grandchildren. A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, at Bedford Bible Church, with Rev. Martin Wickens officiating. Burial at Bedford Cemetery. Friends will be received from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday at Bedford Bible Church. Arrangements by TIMOTHY A. BERKEBILE FUNERAL HOME in Bedford. Our online guest book is available at www.berkebilefuneralhome.com