Joseph "Joe" A. Bear
Joseph A. “Joe” Bear 88 of Tipton died at his residence Friday, April 30, 2021. He was born in Elwood on October 12, 1932 to Albert J. and Mary Alma (Wheatley) Bear. On July 23, 1966 Joe married Loretta J. Shell, in Fort Wayne, Indiana and she survives.
Joe was a 1951 graduate of Tipton High School. Following graduation from THS he attended Ball State Teachers College in Muncie, Indiana before enlisting in the United State Air Force where he spent three of his four year enlistment in France. After his Honorable Discharge from the military he returned to Ball State where he earned a BS Degree in 1961. He later earned an MS from St. Francis College in Fort Wayne.
Joe’s life centered on education. He was a teacher and counselor at Tipton High School, helping shape many youth throughout the years. He was a member of NEA, ISTA, TCRTA, ISRTA, Lions Club, Elks, and past Grand Knight of Council 1265 of the Knights of Columbus.
With Loretta, he is also survived by their son Larry and his wife Missy of Tipton, a daughter Mary Clouser and her husband Paul of Delphi, three grandsons: Joe Clouser, Jacob Clouser and John Bear. Joe has three sisters: Beedie Sampson of Tipton, Martha McCormack and husband Malachy of Kokomo and Theresa Mae Lutchka of Missouri and a brother Ray and his wife Glenna of Swayzee, Indiana. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews, great nieces and great nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents, three nephews, and three brothers-in-law.
The family will receive friends Saturday, May 8, from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Young-Nichols Funeral Home. A graveside funeral service will follow 11:15 a.m. at St. Johns Cemetery in Tipton with Rev. Paul Cochran presiding. The Tipton American Legion and USAF will conduct military rites at the cemetery.
Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to the charity of your choice.
Uncle Joe was one of a kind. A teacher and counselor and friend to many. Though his physical presence will be missed I know his work is not done. I have no doubt he will be watching over Aunt Loretta,Larry & Missy, Mary & Paul. Joe, Jacob and John. So many good memories you made. You will never be forgotten.
Spread your wings and fly Uncle Joe.
Joe was a very good teacher. I enjoyed his personality and his ability in class very much. The year I had him I could never beat the first student in his class even though he edged us on with fun competition. It was fun having him for a teacher. RIP you were a Great man on Earth now it is time for eternal peace.
Joe and I shared an apartment we were first started by teaching. He had heart of gold and I be know he’s in a better place. May God rest his soul. Praying 🙏 for the family
Always quick with the broadest, most genuine smile, he was such a positive in so many lives. I am forever indebted to Mr. Bear for his patient, kind, and encouraging counsel during my years at THS.
“Eternal rest grant unto them , O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.”
Oh Loretta, I am so sorry to learn of Joe’s death. He was not only a colleague, but a dear friend. His enthusiasm for his students and counselees was inspiring, and I have many wonderful memories of you both in our years together.
Joe was a salt of the earth good man. Always a smile, a sense of humor and so much love for his family ❤ I will treasure the many memories I had with Joe when he picked up the boys & the laughs & good words when I was at Paul & Mary’s. He is one of the best💔😘
My thoughts and prayers to the entire family.
Mr. Bear truly cared about every student he counseled and made a difference in so many lives.
My heart goes out to the family, Mr Bear was the kindest caring man i knew. He helped me through school by listening to me, actually caring..
He brought things to light for us to see and accept…..help us change what we could. So very sorry Larry.