Joel Francis Groebner

JOEL FRANCIS GROEBNER, age 55 of Waseca, died peacefully in his sleep on Monday, June 8, 2020 at his home.

Born in Waseca on October 10, 1964, Joel was the son of Leo Richard and Margaret Mary (Madden) Groebner. He attended grade school at Sacred Heart before moving on to Waseca Public Schools, graduating with the class of 1983. Joel continued his education at the University of Wisconsin – Steven’s Point, earning a bachelor’s degree in Natural Resource Management with a minor in Environmental Law in 1989. Joel first worked in Elkhart County Parks in Elkhart, Indiana, and later went on to work for the Minnesota DNR in Laq qui Parle, Minneopa, Rice Lake, and Itasca State Parks. He returned to his family home two years ago upon his retirement. Over the years Joel volunteered with the Elkhart Historical Museum, the Waseca Sleigh and Cutter Festival, and the Waseca Chautauqua. He enjoyed playing in the Elkhart Vintage Baseball League, fishing, gardening, spending time outdoors, and hosting family events. He was also a long-time member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Waseca where he often shared his talents as a reader. Joel was always smiling and caused those around him to smile as well. He was a great ray of light to those who knew him and was liked by all. Heaven has gained a great new angel.

Joel is survived by his siblings, Peg (Tom) Sweeney of Eagan, Gene (Cindy) Groebner of Welch, and Dan (Anne) Groebner of Pine Top, AZ; aunts and uncles: John Rohde, Rita Meier, Jim Groebner, Mary Jo Upson and Kathy Ellingson; nine nieces and nephews; and eleven great nieces and nephews with one more on the way. He was preceded in death by his parents; and one sister, Jane Elizabeth Groebner.

Visitation will be held from 4-7PM on Wednesday, June 17, 2020 at the State Street Chapel of Dennis Funeral & Cremation Services and will continue for one hour before the service at the church on Thursday. A parish prayer service will begin at 7:00PM Wednesday evening.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00AM on Thursday, June 18, 2020 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Waseca, with Fr. Gregory Leif officiating. Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Waseca.