Tribute

It is with great sadness that the family of Richard Joel Theodore Vinge (Joel Vinge) born on December 13, 1937, announces his passing on December 11, 2024. Joel is survived by his daughter Karin and his sister Vangie Bergum and a host of loving cousins, nephews, nieces and good friends.

Joel was happily married to Sheila for 58 years before her passing in April 2022 and had two daughters Karin and Karla (Karla sadly predeceased Joel in 2015). Joel worked for Corrections for 30 years until he retired at the age of 57.

Joel had a busy wonderful life with many passions. He loved singing and for years was in the Sun Valley Choir, Bud and Friends (they sang with residents of the Green Home, Joseph Creek, Kootenay Street Village, The Pines and Garden View for almost 30 years) and the Barber Shop Quartet who sang at events around Cranbrook and Fort Steele. He also did “singing valentines” to support a local charity. He loved life, was happy and optimistic about everything that came his way. He loved to help others and was giving of his time to the community including delivering Meals on Wheels, delivering lunches to Cranbrook Schools, volunteering at the Information Booth and playing Santa (he loved being Santa!). Joel made friends wherever he went and was well known in the community. His passing has created a space that will not be filled.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Christ Church Anglican on March 8, 2025 at 1:00 pm with The Reverand Kevin Arndt officiating. Please consider a donation to the BCSPCA to honour his love of animals and his cat Pepe.