LITTLE FALLS - Joseph D. Ehlinger, age 89, died unexpectedly, on Monday, November 10, 2014 at his Little Falls home which he and his wife Arlene and family shared for many wonderful years. He was born on December 8, 1924 in Utica, NY, a son of the late Louis and Rosella (Heintz) Ehlinger. When Joe was 4, his mother died, and his Aunt Colletta Heintz came in to take care of the children; she eventually became his loving stepmother. Joe attended St. Francis de Sales in Utica and later went on to graduate from Little Falls High School. He was also committed to the well - being of St. Mary's Academy in Little Falls and was very active with the school. Joe's marriage of over 67 years to the former Arlene H. Hooks began with a nuptial mass at St. Mary's Church in Little Falls. His working career revolved around Niagara Mohawk, where he retired after 41 years of dedicated service as a supervisor. He was a faith-filled member of the Holy Family Parish. Joe enjoyed spending time with his friends at the Church's men's club, the Little Falls Elk's Lodge and the Knights of Columbus for many years. He is survived by his beloved wife Arlene; his children: Jim Ehlinger and his wife Carole of Colts Neck, NJ, Marc Ehlinger and his wife Marie of Schuylerville, NY, Elaine Ehlinger of Schenectady, John Ehlinger and his wife Patricia of Little Falls, Robert Ehlinger of Little Falls, Joan Ehlinger of Schenectady, David Ehlinger of Guilderland, Joseph Ehlinger and his wife Karen of Latham, and Mary Ehlinger-Wexler and her husband Mark of Brentwood, CA. Joe was an exemplary dad and grandpa and leaves 15 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. He loved to golf, fish and play cards. His family fondly remembers the many good times spent at Piseco and Pine Lakes. Joe loved his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren and entertained them by reading the funny papers in an animated voice and by his innate ability to yo-yo! Three siblings survive: Peter Ehlinger and wife Carmen of Orchard Park, NY, Paul Ehlinger and wife Christine of Pennsylvania, and Roberta Wagner and her husband Richard of Utica. Three sisters-in-law survive: Ann Foltin of Little Falls, Sophia Hooks of Iowa, and Lucy Ehlinger of Virginia. There are many nieces and nephews. Joe was one of thirteen children and was predeceased by his parents and several brothers and sisters. His funeral arrangements have been planned with The Enea Family Funeral Home, 24 West Monroe Street, Little Falls, Harry & Kevin Enea, Funeral Directors. There are no calling hours. A Memorial Mass will be held on Thursday, November 13, 2014 at Noon (12 PM) at the Holy Family Parish, corner of East Main & John Streets, Little Falls with Rev. Terence Healy, Pastor, officiating. Interment of cremains will follow at Church Street Cemetery, Little Falls. Those wishing to remember Joe in a special way are asked to consider donations to the Holy Family Parish. An online memorial page has been established at www.eneafamily.com