Obituary of Joel Straw

Joel passed away suddenly, but peacefully, on June 20th 2024 with his beloved partner Stacey by his side. Joel is survived by Stacey and her family, his daughter Novia, his siblings Michael, Karen (Buehlow), Maryann (Kerr), Jamie, and their families. He was predeceased by his brother Mark, mother Jan (Wallace) in 1995, and his father Jeff in 1996. 

Joel was born in Ottawa and raised in southern Ontario. He was a proud and accomplished Canadian in every way. He was not interested in material gain and wealth; he cared most about his loved ones and nature. A great day was one where he could explore nature, camp, fish, hunt, or hike with loved ones by his side. Joel also loved to read books and find treasures at thrift and antique stores. 

Joel spent two years as a Gunner in the 11th Field Artillery Regiment, RCA in Guelph and then graduated from the Forestry Technology Program at Sir Sanford Fleming College in Lindsay, Ontario. He then headed west to BC where he worked as a forest technician, dangerous tree faller, and planer. After working various other jobs, he ended his days working as a Seed Technician.  

Joel will be very missed by all who knew him. A private gathering will take place at a later date.

“First thing we’d climb a tree and maybe then we’d talk
Or sit silently and listen to our thoughts
With illusions of someday casting a golden light 
No dress rehearsal, this is our life”.

-The Tragically Hip