Joel Tracy

Joel Mathew Tracy

Born 9-12-56

Died 12-20-24

Joel was taken from us too quickly, following an abrupt 10-week battle with metastatic liver cancer. But he will live on in our hearts and memories in perpetuity. Words cannot encompass the joy that he brought to the world. Joel was always ready for the next great adventure-whether it was training for a marathon, tackling an epic cross-country ski race, a Boundary Waters excursion or a white water rafting trip. But the reality was, he brought a frenetic, positive energy to the simple moments, the mundane. He was happiest when surrounded by friends and family, sitting on the dock at Lake Vermillion. He began his nursing career at United Hospital in Saint Paul in 1980 where he met his future wife, Delia Flynn. They married in 1986 and had two daughters, Britt and Abby, who he loved more than anything. Joel later received his Masters Degree and became a Nurse Anesthetist. While he spent his career caring for others, his life was defined by the laughs and kindness he shared with everyone who encountered him. There were no bounds to the happiness he shared. He had a knack for putting patients, friends and strangers at ease with his witty humor. He truly made a difference. Our hearts are breaking now over his passing, but we know he is now resting in eternal peace and we will be forever changed for having been lucky enough to know him.

Joel passed away in the company of his loving family on December 20, 2024. He was preceded in death by his mother, Phyllis Jean. He will be deeply missed by those who survive him: his wife of 38 years, Delia Flynn; children, Britt Tracy, Abigail Tracy; father, James Tracy; siblings, James (Susan) Tracy, Joy Tracy, Jon Tracy, Jane Christensen; nieces, nephews, and a wide circle of dear friends.

Visitation will be 4pm-7pm Monday, January 6, 2025 at BRADSHAW, 2800 Curve Crest Blvd, Stillwater and one hour prior to Mass.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00am Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at ST. MARY'S CATHOLIC CHURCH, 423 5th Street, Stillwater. Memorials preferred to Save the Boundary Waters or Valley Outreach Food Shelf.