Joseph D. “Joe” Settles, a life-long resident of Hancock County, passed away at his home surrounded by his family, Aug. 5, 2023, at the age of 92.  He was born Oct. 2, 1930, in Greenfield to the late Clarence E. Settles and Gladys E. (Warden) Roberts.

Joe attended Mount Comfort High School until his junior year. He was a tremendous basketball player. He then continued his school career and was a 1949 graduate of the Riverside Military Academy. He served in the U.S. Army Reserves from 1951 until 1968. Joe married the love of his life, Carolyn (Mills) Settles, on Sept. 16, 1955, and together they made their home and raised their family in Hancock County.

Joe began his 35-year career as a budget analyst for Chrysler Automotive in 1953.  Always active in his community, Joe served in many elected offices throughout the years, including Jackson Township trustee from 1975 until 1984, Hancock County treasurer for two terms beginning in 1985, and Hancock County auditor for two terms beginning in 1994. During his tenure as treasurer, Joe served as a lobbyist for the Indiana Treasurers Association. Joe had long-time memberships with many local and state organizations, including past president of the Indiana Polled Hereford Association in 1977 and 1979, Greenfield Elks Lodge 1720 for 51 years, American Legion #119 for 27 years. He received his 50-year pin in 2016 from Greenfield Masonic Lodge F & AM 101.

In his spare time, Joe enjoyed working with his cattle, playing cards, boating/lake life and avidly followed his children’s, grandchildren’s, and great grandchildren’s 4-H and sporting events.

Joe is survived by his children; Tim (Julie) Settles, Amy Settles-Garrison; grandchildren Eric (Kassie) Garrison, Amanda (Jason) Maynard, Kandice (Kyle) Conner; and great grandchildren Gavin, Lilli, Aden, Brenna, Lucy, Kash and Kinley.

He is preceded in death by his parents; wife Carolyn in 2021 and son-in-law, Dannie Garrison.

The funeral was Aug. 11 at Stillinger Family Funeral Home, 1780 West Main Street, Greenfield, Ind. Matt Heath officiated. Burial was in Asbury Cemetery, Morristown.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Kenneth Butler Memorial Soup Kitchen, 202 East Main Street, Greenfield, IN 46140; Alzheimer’s Association, 50 East 91st Street, Indianapolis, IN 46240; or the Elk’s National Foundation, 2750 N. Lakeview, Chicago, IL 60614.

Please share your memories of Joe and condolences with his family at www.stillingerfamily.com.