After a long and courageous battle with ALS, Joe passed away peacefully in his home on Tuesday, July 28, 2020 at the age of 51. Many knew him as Joey or Joe Jr. even though he technically wasn’t a junior. His smile was what everyone knew him for and many have said,

“If you knew Joe you loved Joe” or “He was one of the best friends you could have” and His Faith was an example to everyone who knew him. 

Joe was a life long member of Edison Park Lutheran Church which included his Baptism, Confirmation; singing in both the Children’s Choir, later the Praise Team and taught Sunday School. He was a proud Navy reservist

Joe is survived by his parents Karen and Joe Bartel, Sisters: Sue Albers (Rev. Paul), Sally.Housholder (Pastor Mike), Nephews and Nieces: Jon Housholder (Liz), Alex Albers (Jessica), Zachary Albers, Pastor Danny Housholder (Abby), Kristin Housholder Stover (Dr.Daniel), KellyAlbers (Ivan Landmark), Great Nephews: Nathan and Austin Albers.

Also surviving are his God parents, Aunt Sandy and Uncle Herb Schmeisser,

Uncle’s Ron Bartel (Aunt Arlene) and Uncle Al Bartel (Aunt Lorie).

Cousins: Kurt, Eric, Klay, Amery, John, Cynthia, Claire, Paul and David and a long list of loving, loyal and supportive friends.

Joe is also survived by his partner and best friend Enrique Lazaro and Themis Vlahos, who was like a brother to him and was always there to support Joe even to the end.

Faith is what kept Joe in the fight with ALS and in the end he won the battle.

Due to the Pandemic, a “Celebration of Life Service” will take place in the future when the virus is resolved. As per Joe’s wishes it will be on a Saturday at 1:00 pm. Memorials in Joe’s name may be given to: Edison Park Lutheran Church or Edison Park Lutheran Church Foundation, Inc.