Joel B. Stoa, of San Francisco, Calif., died Feb. 9, 2006, at age 66. He was born Feb. 15, 1937. He graduated from Albert Lea High School in 1957. After graduation from Luther College in 1962 he taught vocal music and art for 10 years in public schools in Iowa and Hemet, Calif. For the past 34 years Stoa lived in San Francisco where he worked for a few years at an art gallery and then as a legal secretary while pursuing his love of music and composing. His many compositions include chamber and choral works and nine symphonies.

He is survived by his partner, Leo E. Brown; two brothers, Allan (Nancy) Stoa of Northwood, Iowa and Dennis (Aroon) Stoa of Frisco, Texas; a sister, Marilyn Stoa of San Diego, Calif.; and nine nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Judith (Bowen) Stoa, and his parents, Bernard and Alberta Stoa.