October 27, 1931 - November 3, 2020
Joseph (Joe) Ciarla, 89, passed away peacefully on November 3, 2020, succumbing to old age complexities. He was born to Italian immigrants Domenic and Maria in October of 1931. Growing up in the New Jersey area he enjoyed an Italian heritage.
He served in the Air Force during the Korean Conflict and left the military with the rank of Tech Sargent, having been a Flight-Line Mechanic and trusted leader.
While stationed in Enid at Vance AFB, he met and later married Betty McClintock of Enid in December of 1954. After leaving the Air Force he continued to live in Enid, where he remained a civilian worker at VAFB, later coming a Postal Clerk at the Enid Post Office. During his USPS career he obtained the Postmaster position at the Lahoma Post Office, which he held until his retirement.
His family grew to 5 children (Waynetta, Cheryl, Janice, Steve and Andy) and over the years grandchildren and great-grandchildren were added.
He loved gardening, woodworking, tinkering, creating inlaid wood plaques. He also hand-crafted fishing rods, lures and jigs, along with fly tying. Of his many crafts, his family was his proudest creation.
He led a private life but made a difference in the many lives he touched. His family is very grateful when his life was touched by those at Greenbrier Nursing Home. Their care, devotion and kindness helped make his days of old more comforting, especially his last few here on Earth.
He is survived by his wife Betty; daughters, Waynetta (Bob) Newsom and Cheryl Beck, sons; Steve (Geri) Ciarla and Andy (Linda) Ciarla. Plus many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Janice.
At his request, he will be cremated and no services will be held. A private burial will be held at a later date.
Condolences can be made to the family online at Andersonburris.com. Honored to be recognized nationally, the past 6 years, for the Pursuit of Excellence award. Because family matters, let us take care of yours. We are proud to own the only crematory in Garfield county and ensure your loved one receives the care and respect they deserve while never leaving our care. Visit 3002 N. Van Buren, Enid, OK 73703. Call: (580) 233-2700.
Obituaries are posted, in part, due to the generosity of The Commons.
A United Methodist Retirement Community
Tours: 301 S. Oakwood | (580) 237-6164
Enid's Only Faith-based, Not-For-Profit, Complete Continuous Care Community. Including Long Term Care, Skilled Nursing, Memory Care, Assisted Living, Independent Living Apartments and Townhomes.
