Joseph "Joe" Stafford, age 70, passed away on February 1, 2022, at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center of complications following heart surgery. Joe was born on November 17, 1951, in El Dorado, KS, to Margaret and Bob Stafford.

Joe was a graduate of Nickerson High School and he attended Hamline University in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Joe lived in Lawrence, KS for many years. For a time, he was the owner of a business on Massachusetts Street. Joe also worked for the United States Postal Service and for Cox Communications. Later in life, Joe relocated to Hutchinson to be closer to family members. At the time of his death, Joe was employed at Portfolio Recovery Associates.

Joe enjoyed sports, especially KU basketball. He also enjoyed music, reading, and he was a fabulous cook. Joe loved spending time with his nieces and nephews and they adored him.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Dr. Rob Stafford and Tom Stafford and his nephew, George Stafford.

He is survived by sisters, Nancy (Jim) Rizzuto, Kris Stafford, Sarah Kovach and Mary Stafford; brothers, Ned Stafford and Jon (Eleanor) Stafford, and his nieces and nephews.

Cremation has taken place. Per Joe's wishes, there will be no funeral service. Memorial contributions to the Hutchinson Public Library may be made in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson 67501.