Omar Beal Joel Jr., 82, passed away Tuesday, June 11, 2024 at the Good Samaritan Center of Albert Lea. A graveside service will be held at 2PM on Wednesday, June 19, 2024 at Hillcrest Cemetery in Albert Lea.

Omar B. Joel Jr.

Omar was born on April 2, 1942 in Wells, MN to Omar and Beulah (Boettcher) Joel. He grew up in Albert Lea, attending the Albert Lea High School until he graduated and went on to join the military. He served in the Army for several years before he was honorably discharged and returned home to Albert Lea. He moved his family to Colorado and started up a small business selling sod, before returning to school and getting a degree in the culinary arts.

Omar had a musical soul and loved to sing. He was particularly fond of Hank Williams Sr. and could sing along to his music no matter what. He also enjoyed the Minnesota Twins and spending time with his family.

He is survived by his son James Dean Joel, his sons Shawn Allen Solem, Travis Joel, Ryan Joel, Aaron Joel, daughter Brandi Joel, and their children; daughter Renee d’Lyn Joel Kasper and her son Tarin Kasper and daughter Teka Kasper and their children; daughter Chanin Joleen Joel Williams and her daughter Brecklin Joleen Williams and son Jaylen Lewis Williams; brothers Charles (Judy) Joel, Roy (Luwanna) Joel, and Gene (Lynn) Joel; sisters Laura Joel and Kathy (Whitney) Reim; and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents Omar and Beulah Joel; brother James (Marcella) Joel; and sisters Martha Joel Parkhurst and Sherry (Steve) Joel Christianson.