About Joel Scharf

Joel was born in Brooklyn, N.Y., and raised in Hewlett, Long Island, N.Y.  He graduated from The Missouri School of Mines and Metallurgy in 1959 with a bachelor’s of science degree in mining engineering with a petroleum geology option.  During his collegiate career, he competed on the swimming team and lettered for four years while living at the Jackling Gym.  Following graduation, he went into the military for five years, leaving as a captain in the Army Corps of Engineers with his primary service in Germany.  He then joined a small family-owned manufacturing company with locations in Dothan, Ala., and New York City, becoming president of the company in 1970 and increasing sales to over $12 million before retiring in 1996.

Joel has been married 51 years to his wife, Linda, and have two children (Ali and Stephen) who have given them six wonderful grandchildren. He is a member of the Order of the Golden Shillelagh and have continually contributed to the Miner athletics program.  He has contributed to The Lucien Bolon Athletic fund as he was a good friend and supporter of Miner athletics.

Recently, Joel and his wife moved to an active adult community that has intramural athletic events with other adult communities.  He came out of retirement and joined the swimming team in my community, winning two silver medals last year and one gold medal this year in the freestyle relay.  He presently works out three days a week while doing volunteer work, traveling and playing tennis.