He may never have been an astronaut, a brain surgeon, or a celebrity, but he was the kind of guy everyone could have used as a friend.  My little brother, as I refer to him even though he was almost 20 years old, was shot and killed the night of June 18, 1997; that night everything changed. He was the kind of person who would do anything for you if you asked him politely. He shunned away from violence and didn't even like it if someone raised their voice at him. Joel graduated from Central High School with the class of 1996 in Omaha, Nebraska. Graduating from high school was a great accomplishment for my brother because throughout his life he battled with his learning disability. Joel tried very hard but had difficulty retaining information the way most of us do. People have explained it as if you are trying to give someone directions in another language and expect them to understand what you are telling them. Joel also trusted people more than he probably should have; sometimes people took advantage of him because he was too nice. The only trouble Joel ever got in was always a result of him being persuaded by his friends. Joel probably didn't even realize the danger he was in when he pulled up next to the vehicle who's passenger had been harassing them a few miles back. There are a million different little things that could have changed the fatal turn of events that night, but God must have decided that Joel had spent enough time with us here on earth and decided to call him home late that night of June 18, 1997.

Memories Build a Special Bridge	Joel and Mom (Senior Pic)
Our memories build a special bridge when loved ones have to part to help us feel we're with them still and soothe a grieving heart. Our memories span the years we shared, preserving ties that bind, they build a special bridge of love and bring us peace of mind. -- Emily Mattews --

 

    Joel loved being outdoors so he found a job at the beginning of his senior year working for Lanoha Nursery in Omaha taking care of the landscaping and mowing duties at the Con Agra Headquarters in Downtown Omaha. At the beginning of this summer he started working for a friend of the family who owned his own lawn service. Joel loved working and playing outside no matter what the weather conditions.

Last updated January 12, 2007