In the heart of Bristow, Joseph 'Papa Joe' Ihle, Sr., is a name that feels like home. At 103, he is Oklahoma's oldest living Marine and the steady hand behind Sooner Pecan, a fixture of the community. A native of Bristow, Joe grew up with parents who ran local businesses, learning early the values of hard work, responsibility, and service, lessons that would guide him for a lifetime.
Arriving back in Bristow after his military service, Joe planted pecan trees on his Creek County land, gradually growing a grove of thousands. The orchard became a symbol of patience and perseverance, standing through storms, droughts, and time itself. Neighbors came for holiday pies, children marveled at the cracking and sorting, and the grove became a natural gathering place for the community. From this grove, Sooner Pecan was born, a family business that grew from a roadside stand to a local landmark known for fresh pecans and warm welcomes The community has long celebrated his milestones, but Joe insists the true reward was simple: returning home, building a life, and giving back to Bristow.
On Sept. 11, 2025, the Rotary Cub, members of the community, friends and family joined in celebration of Papa Joe in a surprise gathering at Venue 66. At 103, he received a commendation letter from General Eric M. Smith, Commandant of the United States Marine Corps, honoring his bravery at Iwo Jima and service in Japan, presented by Rotary District Governor John Rains.
Even today, Papa Joe is a living connection to Bristow’s past. He is a Marine, a farmer, and a pillar of the community. His life is etched in the shade of his pecan grove, the success of Sooner Pecan, and the countless people he has touched through service, friendship, and example. At 103, Joseph Ihle continues to inspire Bristow, season after season, story after story.