Joseph Mark Stilinovich

Joseph, better known as Joe or Joey, was born in Huntington Beach, CA and passed away peacefully in his sleep on January 15, 2024. Joe spent most of his childhood in West Covina, CA where he attended Edgewood High School. He held a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and Master’s Degree in Emergency Service Administration from California State University Long Beach. He was a member of Sigma Pi Fraternity. He was a graduate of the FBI National Academy, the West Point Leadership Program, the Sherman Block Supervisory Leadership Institute and received the California Peace Officers Association Professional Achievement Award.

Joe’s love of God, family and country was evident in the way he lived his life. He served 17 years in the Long Beach Police Department. Joe moved through the ranks ultimately achieving the rank of Commander. Joe worked in numerous divisions including patrol as an Officer, Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Commander. He was the Basic Academy Sergeant at the Long Beach Police Academy, Commander of the South Division, Commander of the Training Division, and Commander of the Gangs and Violent Crimes Division.

Joe left LBPD to serve as the Chief of Police in Seal Beach CA. “Chief Joe” as he was fondly referred, was often seen walking Main Street greeting citizens, visitors, and local business owners alike. Joe loved serving people and giving to the community, he believed in building partnerships and connecting people.

Joe retired from law enforcement to continue working in the private sector for Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling. During his time at Coca-Cola, he served as a Manager of Operational Excellence and Director of Business Continuity. Joe was proud to be a member of the Reyes Family of Business.

Joe loved serving his community and could often be found volunteering at various places like the Youth Center where he helped with programs like Every 15 Minutes, annual golf tournaments and community support campaigns. He volunteered countless hours at his children’s schools and sports teams over the years.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Dorothy Ann Stilinovich, his brother-in-law Paul Bohnlein, and nephew Craig Wiley.

He is survived by his beautiful family; wife Tammie Stilinovich, daughter Briney, twin sons Garrett and Dane, sister Debbie Bohnlein of Long Beach, CA, brothers Wayne Wiley of Baton Rouge, LA and Mark Wiley of Monongahela, PA, nieces Kerry Pierce, Jennifer Wood, Kimberly Bohnlein, Ellie Dunseith, Lilith Bouman, Heather Bohnlein, Aubrey Bohnlein, Kristine Tanaka and Abigail Barajas, nephews John-Paul Bohnlein, Henry Dunseith, Paul Bohnlein, Jameson Bohnlein, Jeremy Wiley, and Kyle Tanaka. Many great-nieces, great-nephews and cousins ranging from coast to coast. His family through marriage George and Carolyn Briney, David and Georgina Tanaka, and Bernardo and Laurie Barajas.

Joe was a force; his determination matched no other. His spontaneity was infectious. He lived and loved BIG and will be missed by all who love him. His absence creates a void that will never be filled.

Memorial Service

Tuesday, January 30, 2024, 1030am

Seacoast Grace Church

5100 Cerritos Avenue

Cypress, CA 90630

Luyben Dilday Mortuary (562) 425-6401