WILMINGTON — Joseph Peter Filip, who made his grand entrance on January 26, 1953, in Wilmington, NC, took his final bow on March 8, 2025, in the same beloved city at the age of 72. Known for his quick wit and love of the outdoors, Joseph lived a life as colorful as the history he so adored.
Joseph proudly served as an Aviation Structural Mechanic with the U.S. Navy for two decades, from 1987 to 2007, where he earned numerous medals and awards. His time in the service was marked by dedication and a penchant for humor that could lighten even the heaviest of days. After hanging up his uniform, he embraced farm life with open arms, finding peace among the rolling fields of Rocky Point, NC.
When not tending to his farm, Joseph could be found camping, fishing, or serenading his redbone coonhounds, who were as cherished to him as his own children. A man of many interests, he also had a passion for history, guns, and antiques, collecting stories and artifacts with equal enthusiasm.
Joseph was a man of Hungarian descent and took great pride in his heritage, often reminding everyone within earshot of the rich history and vibrant culture of his ancestors. He was a proud member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and a man of Catholic faith, values he carried with him throughout his life. He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer James Filip and Ilona Teresa née Do Broka, and his brother-in-law, Brad Wagner, who are undoubtedly welcoming him into their heavenly fold.
He leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter, survived by his children: Candace (Chris) Bautista, Tiffany (Andrew) Simmons, Joey Filip, Jr., and Patrick Filip. His grandchildren, James Simmons, Jackson Simmons, Jenna Simmons, Elliot Bautista, and Penny Bautista, will carry on his adventurous spirit. His siblings, Matilda Wagner and Teri (Bruce) Reed, along with nieces Ilona Holmberg, Audrey Holloman, and nephew Brad Wagner, Jr., will forever cherish his memory.
A celebration of Joseph’s life will be held at the family farm in the near future, where stories will be shared, and perhaps a few fishing tales will grow longer. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Disabled American Veterans, honoring his commitment to his fellow servicemen and women.
Joseph Peter Filip may have left this world, but his legacy of humor, service, and love for life will continue to resonate with all who knew him.
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