A man who's been called "Mr. Ellenville" unexpectedly passed away.

Village of Ellenville Manager Joseph P. Stoeckeler Jr., died suddenly Saturday afternoon at the age of 59, according to Ellenville police.

"Joe was truly 'Mr. Ellenville,' he loved this community and worked around the clock to ensure it would stay on course," Village of Ellenville Chief of Police Phillip S. Mattracion said. "If I was ever asked who I would say best defined this Village, it would unequivocally be without a doubt, Joe. He had a vision for this community, to place us back on the map."

Joe spent most of his life in public service, as well as running a real estate business in Ulster County. He spent the last six years of his life as Village Manager for the Ellenville Community.

Joe was born in Kingston and graduated from Ellenville High School. He then went on to earn an Associate Degree in Business Administration from Ulster County Community College; a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from Marist College; and a Master's Degree in Public Administration from Marist College, according to his obituary.

"Joe was especially proud of his work in the development of Lippman Park, in spearheading the legislation that kept the Ellenville Hospital open, and, most recently, the potential redevelopment of the Shawangunk Country Club," his obituary states.

The family would love for anyone to share fond memories or stories about Joe. You can email stories to storiesofjpsjr@gmail.com.

Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday at Louck's Funeral Home in Ellenville.

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