H. Josef "Joe" Arlang

Joe Arlang, age 84, of Jarrettsville, Maryland, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 1, 2026.

Born in Austria, Joe was the beloved son of the late Helene Marie (Hájak) Evans. Following World War II, he immigrated to the United States with his mother and his sister, Renáte (Arlang) Shelley, where he built a remarkable life defined by hard work, devotion to his family, and unwavering determination.

A proud United States Army veteran, Joe often credited his military service with changing the course of his life. Though he described himself as having a rebellious and adventurous spirit in his younger years, his time in the Army instilled the discipline and values that shaped the loving husband, father, grandfather, and businessman he became.

Joe's family was truly his entire world. He was happiest when caring for those he loved and took immense pride in being a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. What began as an accidental blind date with Sheila quickly became the love story of his life. Two weeks after they met, he asked her to marry him, and within the year they were married, beginning a beautiful partnership that lasted more than 60 years. Together they not only built a loving family but also built a successful business. They were true partners in every sense of the word, working side by side throughout their lives.

A talented and resourceful man, Joe was the definition of a jack-of-all-trades. He was especially proud of building his own home with his own hands, a testament to his remarkable skill, determination, and craftsmanship.

For most of his life, Joe’s passion was golf. He loved spending time on the course whenever he could with his many golfing buddies. He also enjoyed playing poker, especially during the regular family card games held every few weeks for the past few years. Those evenings spent laughing, playing cards, and simply being together with his family and close friends were among his most treasured moments.

Joe was preceded by his mother, Helene Marie (Hájak) Evans.

He is survived by family that meant everything to him: his beloved wife of more than 60 years, Sheila Ann Arlang; his loving daughters, Kristina McGowan and her partner Keith Sawyer, and Lisa Hale and her husband Ed Hale, Jr.; his cherished grandchildren, Jessica, Jackie, Tyler, Leo, Charlie, and Emma. He is also survived by extended family, including his sister, Renáte (Arlang) Shelley, as well as dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.