Gene Oliver Joel

Gene Joel passed away on December 23, 2024, at his home surrounded by family. 

Gene Oliver Joel was born on October 2, 1950, to Omar and Beulah (Boettcher) Joel in Albert Lea. After high school Gene enlisted in the United States Army serving for two years and receiving his GED. Gene married Lynn Perhus and they made their home and raised their children in Albert Lea. Gene was a master baker at Boyd and Jack’s, then Nelson’s County Market. He was also an active member of the American Legion. 

Gene enjoyed going to the casino but above all he enjoyed his time spent with his wife, kids, grandkids and great grandkids. 

Gene is survived by his wife, Lynn; children Ryan (Carol) Linde, Lisa Joel (Steve Boyken), Melissa Kohler (Travis Westcott), and Kevin Joel (Brianne Plantage), all of Albert Lea; grandchildren Kristian, Levi and Kylie Sundve, Katie and Dalton Bradley, Dylan Kohler, and Mercedes, Alexis, and Brentley Joel; great grandchildren Jayden, Wrenlyn, and Elijah; siblings Charles (Judy) Joel, Laura Joel, Kathleen (Whitney) Reim, Roy (LuWanna) Joel all of Albert Lea, special cousin Linda Moreland; and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws. 

Gene was preceded in death by his parents Omar and Beulah Joel, siblings James Joel, Omar (Happy) Joel, Martha Parkhurst and Sherry Christensen; father-in-law Philip Perhus, mother-in-law, Veda Perhus, brother-in-law Jeffrey Perhus, and sister-in-law Carol Hanson. 

A Celebration of Life for Gene is to be held at the Albert Lea American Legion Post 56 on February 8th, 2025, from 12-3PM.