Joel Dodge

Joel David Dodge, loving son, brother and uncle, passed away at his home in Mountain Lake early Tuesday morning at 19 years of age. He is preceded in death by his mother, Wendy Lynn Dodge (2007). Joel is survived by father, Dave Dodge of Mountain Lake, his brother Bryan Dodge of Mountain Lake, and sister Holly Theobald (Dodge) of Mountain Lake and her children Eleanor and Sullivan. Joel was born June 12, 1992 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The family moved from the cities in 1994 to a farm north of Mountain Lake. The house was approved by the children because there was a tree house, a weeping willow, and a tire swing; all previous requirements made by Joel and his siblings for their future home. There on that humble farm, Joel and his siblings enjoyed an adventurous childhood. Joel made the decision at a young age to give his life to Jesus and was baptized at the Assembly of God Church in 2003 in Sherburne, Minnesota. Joel was known to be active in his church, Boy Scouts, Midway Mt. Movers 4H club, and later football, baseball and was even recognized in 2007 for his accomplishments in state wrestling. Joel was an active student at Mountain Lake Public School and a recent graduate of ALC Red Rock Ridge/ Comfrey Public School. Joel enjoyed making people laugh, always bringing a smile to their face. A gentle giant, Joel was always there for people and would help anyone who needed him. He enjoyed hanging with friends, motorsports, playing his video games, and he was always the last one up at a slumber party. He lived up to his uncle expectations by dragging his niece and nephew around the yard and wrestling during Christmas dinner. He may have been the youngest member of his family, but Joel was a steady protector and always supportive no matter what. Joel was known to all as a lifeline, a cherished friend, always ready with a joke or a laugh or a hug. Warm and giving, Joel has touched many lives and has proven to be a brother and a son to more people than just family.