Joseph W. Topinka

Joseph W. Topinka Jr., 63, of Bedford, died on Tuesday, September 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 step-children: Jude Williams and wife Leigh Anne of Mt. Pleasant, Tessie Williams and fiancé 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 is affiliated with Bedford Bible Church and a former member, usher, and deacon at the Bedford Presbyterian Church. The proudest moment of Joseph’s life is 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 Virgina, and enjoyed spending time with his wife on Cheat River, hiking the mountain on his property and planting trees. Joseph was also was 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 on Friday, September 5, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the Bedford Bible Church, with Rev. Martin Wickens officiating. Burial at Bedford Cemetery. Friends will be received on Friday from 11:00 -1:00 p.m. at the Bedford Bible Church. Arrangements by the Timothy A. Berkebile Funeral Home in Bedford. Our online guest book is available at www.berkebilefuneralhome.com