Joel Lael Willey

Joel Lael Willey

Cedar Rapids

Joel Willey passed peacefully surrounded by family and friends on Oct. 27, 2022, his 51st birthday, following a hard battle with cancer. His courage and optimism kept him hopeful for a cure. Joel was a kind and gentle soul. He loved fishing almost as much as he loved his nieces and nephews. He pursued a career in Chiropractic and met a lot of amazing people and fishing buddies along the way.

Much to his sisters’ chagrin, his spot on imitations of Forrest Gump, Homer Simpson and Pee Wee Herman was his forte. Joel’s heart was as big as the huge grouper he caught off the Alaskan coast last year. His kindness and empathy were uncontested. He was a wonderful person.

Please join us from 3 to 7 p.m. Nov. 19, at the Quarter Barrel in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, for pinball, Galaga and pizza to celebrate Joel’s life.

Joel is survived by his mother, Juli Willey; brother, Keith Cooksey Willey; sisters, Leigh Carson (Dennis) and Lynn Frantz (Eric); nieces and nephews, Nicolas (Meredith) Willey, Nathan (Ashley) Willey, Janay, Blake, Aiden, Olivia and Christian; and great-nephew, River William. He was also survived by many aunts, uncles and very special friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, LeRoy; brother, Blaine; grandparents, uncle and cousins.

Cards and condolences can be forwarded to Julianne Willey at 815 17th St. SE Cedar Rapids, IA 52403.

The family wishes to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone at the UnityPoint Home Hospice. Everyone there were amazing and we appreciate it so much.