Joseph Alonzo Teal passed away peacefully in his Richland home on March 11, 2026. He was a loving father and husband who would help anyone in need and made the world a better place.

Joseph was born in Knox City, TX on January 8, 1934. He grew up in Lubbock, TX, attended Texas Tech University, and graduated with a degree in Chemical Engineering in 1956.

After college, he moved to Richland, WA in 1956 where he began working at the Hanford Area as a Reactor Project Engineer. He served his country as a Navigator in the United States Air Force from 1957-1960, before returning to Richland in 1960 where he continued at the Hanford area for 42 years, working with Uranium and Plutonium processing, waste management, and consulting with government contractors and the Department of Energy.

He was first married in 1964 and his son David was born in 1970. He purchased a farm in West Richland in 1975, and spent many years farming the land, raising animals, and developing blacksmith skills among other hobbies.

He married his second wife Irene in 1993, and they enjoyed many years together on his farm and near Benton City, WA. Together they enjoyed artistic endeavors including pottery and painting, and road trips throughout the western US with their dog Ned. Joseph loved animals and many held a special place in his heart over the years including Ned, Nelson the dog, and numerous cats – Stopsel, Bully, Mitza, and others.

Joseph will be remembered as a kind and generous soul, whose remarkable talents and endless curiosity touched the lives of all who knew him. A chemical engineer, devoted farmer, accomplished carpenter, and talented painter, his skillful hands brought beauty and craftsmanship into the world. His ventures into lost wax bronze casting resulted in stunning works of art, demonstrating his knack for mastering any craft he chose to pursue. He built a beautiful arched bridge, a decorative steel gazebo, and created a myriad of furniture pieces that now grace the homes of his beloved family.

His approach to life was defined by a willingness to learn, and if faced with new challenges, he would quickly excel, often matching or surpassing the abilities of seasoned professionals. Above all, his dedication to his family was unwavering. He was a constant source of support, always ready to help with any problem or need. Together with Irene, they hosted many magical holiday gatherings and creating cherished memories for all. His legacy of generosity, curiosity, and love will continue in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to share in his remarkable journey.

He was preceded in death by his parents Joseph Lonnie Teal and Elizabeth Katherine Teal, his sister Mary Elizabeth Shrank, his grandson by marriage Erik Urban, and his wife Irene Teal. He is survived by his son David Joseph Teal and his wife Kristine, their children Josephine and John, Sandra Fies (daughter) and her children Dylan and Avery, and Melissa Bond (daughter).

We would like to thank the wonderful Hanford home health caregivers that took care of Joseph and Irene over the past few years. They became like family to us and we love them.