Joel William Carlson was born in Slayton, MN on December 14, 1964, to Roy and Lorraine (Schaffer) Carlson. His life began as a premature baby and he lived well beyond his life expectancy of one year, passing away at the age of 58.
Joel had special needs which required additional services. Due, in part, to the loving advocacy of his foster mother, Mary Kinde, Joel was able to spend many years at the West Concord MSOCS (MN State-Operated Community Services) Group Home. He thrived in the family-type setting with friends and caretakers.
As a retired gentleman, Joel especially enjoyed music of all genres, from Country Western, to Easy Listening, or Rock and Roll. He liked dining at Chipotles, where he could eat spicy foods and top off the meal with a chocolate shake. Joel spent many hours outdoors in his swing, and also seemed to enjoy the motion of an exciting car ride. West Concord staff provided him with engaging outings in the community, such as visits to the park, county fairs, and an apple orchard.
Joel’s earthly life was not always easy, but he was a survivor. He was strong-willed and yet thrived in an atmosphere of peace and routine. These characteristics were complemented by a mischievous sense of humor, and we loved him for it.
Joel passed away at Seasons Hospice House in Rochester, MN on May 6, 2023, due to prolonged health issues. He is survived by his siblings, Tom (Shirley) Carlson of Slayton, Kathy (Doug) Bloemke of Winona, Jim Carlson of Garvin, Paulette (Joe) Stefanick of Garvin, Fran (Sandy) Carlson of Garvin, Camilla Schmidt of Flandreau, SD, Marlene (Rob) Morgan of Tracy, John (Lori) Carlson of Tracy, and Mike (Melissa) Carlson of Granite Falls; along with many nieces and nephews. Joel is also survived by his West Concord Group Home family. He was preceded in death by his parents; foster mother, Mary Kinde; brother, Bob; brother–in-law Jim Schmidt; three nephews and a niece.
A Celebration of Life for Joel will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, May 13, 2023, at Czaplewski Family Funeral Home, 801 7th Street SE, Kasson, MN 55944. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Burial will be out of town at a later date.
The family offers a heartfelt thank-you to all of Joel’s friends and caretakers for helping to give him a full life. We also acknowledge the compassionate care and support that Hospice provided to ease Joel’s departure from this life.
To share a special memory or condolence please visit www.czaplewskifuneralhomes.com, Czaplewski Family Funeral Homes, 801 7th St SE Kasson, MN 55944 (507)634-6510. Blessed be his memory.