Joel Gragg Severson
October 15, 1970 ~ August 31, 2010
Resided in:
Canton, NC
Joel Gragg Severson, 39, of Candler, died on Tuesday, August 31, 2010, as a result of a motor vehicle accident.
Born in Candler on October 15, 1970, Mr. Severson was a son of Bobbie Severson, of Candler, and of the late Porter Severson.
He graduated from The Asheville School in 1988, where he excelled academically, obtaining the status of Ranking Scholar, and earning various other awards. He was a National Merit Scholar recipient and graduated from Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA.
After graduating, he spent the next eight years in Japan teaching English in various positions, including the JET program. He taught students of all ages, but especially enjoyed teaching children.
Joel returned to North Carolina and had recently completed a degree at AB-Tech, with high honors, in pursuit of his next endeavor. He planned to return to Japan to marry his long-time girlfriend, Emi. But no matter where he lived, he stayed rooted to this area and to his family, whom he loved without measure.
In addition to his mother, Joel is survived by his sister, Portia Sutton and husband Ernie, and their children, Rusty and Kadie; brother, Donald Severson and wife Jean, and their daughters, Miranda and Jessica; sister, Karen Turner and husband David, and their sons, Zane and Carson; and his girlfriend, Emi Iguchi, of Japan.
His family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Saturday at Groce Funeral Home on Patton Ave.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Asheville School, 360 Asheville School Rd., Asheville, NC 28806, to financially help sponsor local students who might otherwise be unable to attend.
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My love and prayers to you all.
How could you not love such a wonderful friend and wonderful man. Never an unkind word and always made people feel like he was truly happy to see them. We all loved him and there are many people who are better for having known him. My thoughts are with you all right now.
Joel was a great friend and a wonderful, brilliant person. He visited me in Kentucky at my parents’ home last year–my whole family loved him. We are all deeply saddened, and our thoughts are with you.
Bobbie,Portia,Karen,Donald and family.our hearts and prayers are with you all.Joel was a sweet guy.He had a wonderful smile that gave a ray of sunshne to all.please know we are here for you always. With love and sympathy Janice,lynn charlie,andrew Farmer
Sitting in the Walker Arts Center at AS tonight for the Academic Awards convo seeing the current Ranking Scholars march across the stage to pick up their well-deserved awards and flashbacked to 22 years ago when Joel was doing just the same. So very sorry for this sad news and for Joel’s family.
Dear Portia. Please accept my deepest sympathy in the loss of your brother. Sincerely, Kathleen
I worked with Joel in the ER at Mission. What a loss this is for everyone who knew him, and to know Joel was to love Joel. He was a rare gem of a human being, and the world is that much less without him in it. I will always remember his kind, gentle spirit and his quick smile and his thirst for learning about anything and everything that crossed his path. He will always live on as an example to me of how to live a valuable life. My prayers and thoughts are with you all.
Joel was a rare person,who was generous,warm and had all good qualities, in all the years i’ve known him i’ve never once heard him say a bad thing about anyone. He loved his family and friends. God bless him and peace to his sprit
Karen and Family,
I am so very sorry for the loss of Joel. And all though I did not know him, I can see that he loved each of you very much. May the Lord give you peace and comfort during this very difficult time. You all are in our prayers.
Joel was one of the best people I have ever known. My heart and tears go out to you all during this time. Although I have not seen Joel in a while, I already miss him. My deepest condolences to his family.
We are praying for your family. Very sorry for your loss.
My Thoughts and Prayers are with your family.
Karen~
I am so sorry to hear about your brother… You & Your family will be in my prayers..
I am so sorry for your loss. I know your family is very close and together with God you will get through this. We are praying for all of you during this challenging time. God Bless, Mark, Suzie, Callie
My prayers and sympathy with you and your family.
Karen, Kadie and family,
I was saddened to hear of your loss. Although I didn’t know Joel, I can tell he made a difference to many and was truly loved. You are in my prayers.
Bobbi, Porta, Donald & Karen, there are really no words that seem to comfort in a time of loss. I know how close you all are and how much you love one another. And this strength will help ease the pain. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
To the entire family our thoughts and prayers are with you. Joel was a unique person who touched many people in his journey. Even in his short life he did more than most of us will do in a lifetime. There is no question he will live on in the lives all who knew and loved him.
Karen, Katie & Family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you & your familiy during this time of such loss. We all know how very proud you were of Joel everytime you spoke of him. May God be with you and lighten the pain in your hearts.
Sherri & Jamie Morgan
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. From what I have heard, Joel always pushed to better himself academically and was quite a well rounded young man. My prayers are with you all. I know he is missed.
Karen, Kadie and Family: My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this very difficult time. I pray that God will wrap his arms around you for comfort and give you strength.
Natasha Greene
Dear Family,
My heart is touched by the loss of Joey. He was blessed with a brilliant mind and a winning personality. My love and prayers are with you in this difficult time. I was privileged to know Joey through his middle school years. Just know that he touched many lives, including mine.
Love and Prayers,
Nancy Randall
Joey thanks for uplifting each of us every time we stepped on the field, court, or classroom. Your leadership, friendship, and fellowship will always be with me.
We are deeply sorry for your loss. Joel was an intelligent, funny, warm and kind man who always had the best intentions. He would do anything to help out a friend, and his family was the center of his life. Although we only knew Joel for a short time his presence touched our lives. Joel will live on in the memories of all who knew and loved him.
Karen, I am so sorry for your loss. Its obvious your brother was loved by many and had a great effect on their lives. You and your family are in my prayers.
I have nothing but good memories and thoughts of Joey. What a great person he is, how he enjoyed life, and that he cared about others. He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.
Joey was a great inspiration to all that knew him. I had the privilege to coach Joey during middle school. What I remember most about Joey was how he cared about others and his impressive personality. My prayers and thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
PORTIA AND FAMILY, I AM VERY SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. WE LOVE YOU ALL AND ARE PRAYING FOR YOU. PLEASE LET US KNOW IF THERE IS ANYTHING WE CAN DO.
LOVE, TIM, VICKI, AND FAMILY
PORTIA AND FAMILY
WE ARE THINKING AND PRAYING FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. WE WILL ALWAYS BE THERE FOR YOU IF YOU NEED ANYTHING.
JUST LET US KNOW. LOVE, ERNEST & LOIS
Karen & family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Joey was always so kind & friendly. God has a wonderful angel in his arms today smiling down on you & your family. I will keep you in my prayers and may God be with you during this difficult time.
Karen, Kadie and family, My heart breaks for your family. You all will be in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you.
Karen and Family-
May God comfort and keep you during this difficult time. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Portia, Bobbie, Donnie and Karen,
I am so sorry for the loss of such a special soul. Joel was admired and loved and I know he was proud of his family for all the love and support he received during his short time here on earth. My heart aches for such a profound loss. Please know that Joel was a pleasure to know, even when he was a child. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Love Joe, Donna, Kyle Henson and Heather, Matt and Kayleigh French.
Joel was my college roommate my freshman year at Stanford. He was an incredible guy with a great heart.
Bobbi, Portia, Donald and Karen,
Joel was such a good person who touched everyone who knew him. Giving and kind, he possessed a prodigious mind and an enormous heart. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of tremendous loss.
I am so sorry for your loss. Some of my fondest memories of Asheville School are of Joel’s laughter and kindness. He will be missed by everyone who was fortunate enough to have known him.
I was saddened to hear of Joel’s passing. Joel was a wonderful person who will truly be missed by many.
Dear Family,
You are in my prayers. I pray God’s grace and mercy be with you in this time of your great loss. I am truly sorry.
John McHone
Karen and family, Words cannot express my sympathy for you. I pray that you will feel the comfort of the Lord through this difficult time. Know that you are loved.
God bless you and your family.
The McAbees
Jeff, Xylina, Cori and Sydney
I graduated with Joel from Asheville School, and have very fond memories of him. He was bright, funny, self-effacing and gracious. I am praying for Joel, and for his family and friends.
I don’t have the words to express how very sorry I am for the loss of a precious son,. brother and uncle. May the only true comfort that there is, the comfort of the Holy Spirit himself, minister to each one of your hearts at this time. I am keeping you all in my prayers.
To the Severson Family,
I was saddened to hear the news of Joel’s passing. I have fond memories of him and can still see his warm smile and curly blond hair. Our hearts ache with you and our prayers of comfort & support are extended to all who knew him. May the good Lord keep and sustain you during this period of transition.
You are certainly in our prayers, and may the comfort of our Heavenly Father be with you now and always.
Dear Karen, David, Bobbie, and Kadie: I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers, and I pray you find comfort during this difficult time.
Dear Family,
You are in my prayers. We will all miss Joel’s adventurous spirit, keen intellect, sense of humor and compassion for others. He helped make everyone’s life better by knowing him.
Over the years, many wonderful people and students pass through the portals of Asheville School. After time, many of their faces, names and memories fade away. Not so with Joel. His life, love of others and accomplishments will always be remembered by his frieds and family
Peace and Comfort at this time and in the days ahead.
Ron Bromley
Joel was my classmate at Asheville School. Today I had lunch with another classmate, and we reminisced about good times with Joel. He was a special person. You are in my prayers.
What sad news. I always so enjoyed catching up with Joel, whether at a coffee shop in Asheville or as he hosted me in Kobe. He was a wonderful person, and I feel truly fortunate that he was a part of my life.
My deepest condolences.
I have such wonderful memories of Joel: his love, his wit, and, especially, his infectious laugh. My heart and prayers go out to all of you. — Sydney
Dear Karen and family,
My heart is so sad for all of you. Joey was a wonderful person. I always enjoyed any interaction I had with him. His quick wit, his warm, loving and caring ways all made him the great guy he was. He will be missed. May God heal your broken hearts as only he can. Love and prayers, Catherine
Joel, friend and inspiration to many, we miss you and are sorry that we did not have an opportunity to say good-bye. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time and in the days and months ahead.
I will always hold on to the memory of our Thanksgiving camping escapade with good friends around Moro Bay. Nickel you are missed.
What a profound loss. I cannot imagine the depth of sorrow experienced by Joel’s family and fianceé at this time, and I pray that they will find comfort at it’s Source. Joel was an uncommon man whose joy and brilliance will live on.
I saw Joel about two weeks ago with his Mother. I had not seen him in a long time, his mom said to me this is my son and he reached out his hand and shook mine. I remember thinking to myself what a sweet man,his hand was very soft and gentle. I can not tell you how sorry I am for your loss. He is with another wonderful gentle man who also has soft hands.
Love Evelyn
Joel was a great friend to so many of us. I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers and thoughts are with you.
Karen and Family, Mom and I were deeply saddened by Joel’s sudden passing. He was such a wonderful, kind, generous and gracious spirit. Always a kind word and a smile for everyone. He will always be missed.
Much Love, Lisa Brandis Lunsford and Ann Brandis
I hardly know what to say. I was so shocked when I looked at the obituaries online. I pray that God will be a real comfort to all of you. What wonderful memories I know you all have. I haven’t seen Joey in years but what a handsome guy he was. I love you all and if there is anything I can do, you know all you have to do is let me know.
May God hold you and keep you through this most difficult time. Joey was a wonderful person and will be missed.
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Joel was truly one of a kind. I will never forget that wonderful smile that he always greeted everyone with. He was a wonderful son, brother and friend. He was a true gentleman and had such a wonderful passion for life which is very evident for anyone that ever met Joel. Joel inspired all those he came in contact with and even though he will be greatly missed, he will never be forgotten. Karen, Donald, Portia and Mom Severson, my heart breaks with you and I am lifting you and the rest of the family up in prayer during this time.
I pray the Lord will lay his hands upon your hearts today and give you the comfort that can only come from Him.
In His Grip
What very sad news this is. My thoughts and prayers go out to Joel’s family. Though it has been since Asheville School days since I have heard from Joel, my memories of him and his love of life and other people are vivid. He was a good person who enriched all our lives.
Dear Family,
It was my privilege to have taught Joey at Sand Hill Middle School. He was a warm, caring, precious young man and it was my honor to have known him. I remember thinking upon many occasions that he was very special; not just for his brilliant mind but his charming and warm personality. Our loss is our Lord’s gain. Please know that my prayers are with you.
My heart has been weeping since I heard the news about Joey. He was a special young man and will be missed by many. The last time I saw him, he was working at CVS and we had a nice long chat. May God comfort each family member at this difficult time is my prayer.
Mrs. Bobbie,
I was so saddened to hear about your son’s death. I remember him at the hospital working in registration. He was always friendly and kind to anyone he met. I know you are all hurting right now, but I know he’s in God’s hands. I try to think that God needed him more than we did, so I know he’s watching over all of you. If I can do anything to help you or your family, please let me know. I will be keeping you and your family in my prayers. God Bless
Dear Portia, Ernie and family,
We were so saddened to hear of Joey’s passing. Our hearts go out to all of you during this difficult time.
Portia, memories come back of how proud you were of Joey when he was accepted at Stanford. Though we never met him, we feel there were many other reasons to be proud of him.
Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you and that Joey is in a far better place now.
Bobbie, Portia, Donald, Karen and Families-I just remember Joey as a little tow headed boy at Liberty Church. To know he grew into such a fine young man,and know his life was cut short by this tragic accident breaks my heart. I hope you find comfort in your wonderful memories of him and know his was a life lived to the fullest and we are all richer for having known him. May God comfort you in your loss.
Portia – I don’t have the words to express my sorrow for you and your family. May the many memories help you in this incredibly difficult time.
Joel was very kind to me when I first arrived at the Asheville School, though our birthdays are exactly a month apart, he was a year ahead of me, and he was one of the ‘hosts’ who showed me the ropes . I will always remember him fondly. As someone who is an avid cyclist, I am acutely aware of how senselessly and needlessly this tragedy was visited on your family. I’m so terribly sorry for your loss.
Portia,
I was sorry to hear about Joel. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Robbie
Karen,
I remember how proud you always were of your little brother. Thinking of all of you during this tragic time.
Prayers and Grace,
Joel’s combination of intelligence, humor and kindness was unique and special and I admired him deeply. I regret losing touch with Joel over the years but I will not ever forget him. My deepest sympathies to you for your loss.
MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO THE FAMILY AT THIS SAD TIME,JOEL TOUCHED A LOT OF PEOPLE ,ALL THAT MET HIM KNEW RIGHT AWAY WHAT A SPECIAL MAN HE WAS.MAY GOD BLESS
Joel’s amazing smile will never be forgotten. Our blessings to his family and loved ones during this most tender of times.
Dear Severson Family,
I was two years behind Joel at Asheville School. I will remember most his spirit, energy, and the fact he treated everyone with the utmost respect. I regret your loss and humbly extend my condolences to his family and friends. He will be missed.
Sincerely & Respectfully,
Jason Neal
Lieutenant Commander, USN
Sorry to hear about Joel. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers
Joel touched all he met. He will be missed and remembered.
I knew Joel when he used to drink occasionally in my bar in kobe, japan. To say he was one of life’s good guys was an understatement. He was always friendly, polite and courteous to everyone. A true gentleman! He and his family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Bobbie,
I was saddened to learn of Joel’s death. Your family and you are in our thoughts and prayers during these difficult days.
Bobbie, We were so sorry to hear of Joel’s death. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jim and Barbara Turpin
Joel, my eclectic friend no matter where you were in this vast world we never lost touch. You never failed to make me laugh with all your stories and sense of humor. You inspired me to go back to school and to do so many things that I never thought I could. You gave me plenty of books over the years to instill the importance of knowledge. What I learned most came from you. You were so very caring and had vast amounts of compassion for everyone, especially your mom. I’m sorry I didn’t get to see your ‘shanty’ in Canton. I’m sure we will meet again in another time. I’m sure you will be the only person I will every met that enjoys eating sushi with a tall glass of milk.
Jennifer
Bobbie, Portia, Donald and Karen,
I’m so sorry for your loss. Joel was my best friend for many years and we never lost touch. My condolences to all of you.
Jennifer
We just want you to know that your family are in our thoughts and prayers. As a motorcycle accident survivor, I feel your grief. Your brother will always be in your heart…and in heaven.
Portia, I’m so sorry, my family will be praying for you and your family. Love Trina
We feel so fortunate to have known you Joel, and will never forget your humanity, humility, generosity, intellect, and adventurous spirit. The sincere warmth and kindness you showed to everyone you came into contact with, whether friend or stranger, is what life is all about. Your deep love for and commitment to your family was another thing we admired and which made you such a wonderful person. We will never forget your laughter, your smile, or your quick wit. You truly were one-of-a-kind Joel and we miss you dearly. Our deepest condolences to the Severson family and everyone who was lucky enough to know the nicest guy in the world.
To Emi and the Seversons,
I am deeply saddened and extremely sorry to hear the news about Joel. He was a fresh of breath air with such a sweet, kind, gentle soul. He touched all those who crossed his path. His brilliance and jovial disposition will be missed by all. My sincere condolences to you all.
To Emi and the Seversons,
I am deeply saddened and extremely sorry to hear the news about Joel. He was a fresh of breath air with such a sweet, kind, gentle soul. He touched all those who crossed his path. His brilliance and jovial disposition will be missed by all. My sincere condolences to you all.
Joel was a kind and wonderful person who will indeed be missed by those fortunate enough to have known him. My thoughts and prayers are with his Family.
Dear Bobbie,
I was so sorry to hear about Joel. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
May God bless you and your family during this time.
Love,
Helen Rice
I knew Joel briefly in Japan. He was a gentleman and will be sadly missed. My deepest condolences to his family.
Dear Bobbie,
We are so sorry for your loss. I will always remember how proud you were of Joel and how happy you were when you spoke of him when we worked together in the office at Sayles. I know your heart must be breaking.
Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Dana and Barry Cochran
To the Severson family,
Joels friends in Japan are many and as one of them I would like to extend my sympathies to you at this difficult time. He was a wonderful and loveable friend who will be dearly missed. Not only was he great fun and amused us with his sharp wit and intellect, but he also was a man of great compassion and warmth. He also wore his heart on his sleeve which we could see was pure and good.Rest in Peace.
Joel had a kindness in both his eyes and heart that you don’t see too often in this world. When you talk to Joel, it was clear that he was completely focused on the people immeidately in front of him. He gave you his heart in each conversation he had.
And although I have not crossed paths with Joel in over 8 years, he always brings a warm smile to my face when I think of him…. He will continue to have that affect on me.
God bless the Severson Family
Joel was such a well meaning, big hearted fella.I loved the depth of conversations with him.So many memories of our times in Japan.I am lucky to have met him.
To the Severson Family and Emi:
Words cannot express the pain I feel in my heart for each of you.
After reading all the comments from other people regarding the life of Joel I would have to say ‘He preached his own funeral.’ I’m sure with the love and care he showed to everyone with whom he came in contact he lived life to its fullest.
When I think of Joel I think also of 1st. Corinthians 13, the Love chapter…’LOVE IS PATIENT, LOVE IS KIND….LOVE NEVER FAILS….WHEN I WAS A CHILD, I USED TO SPEAK AS A CHILD, REASON LIKE A CHILD; WHEN I BECAME A MAN, I DID AWAY WITH CHILDISH THINGS…. BUT NOW FAITH, HOPE, LOVE, ABIDE THESE THREE; BUT THE GREATEST OF THESE IS LOVE.’
Hold close in your hearts all the memories you have of Joel. He has now seen the face of Jesus and resting safely in His arms.
May God bless each of you and fill your hearts and days ahead with His Everlasting Love.
Reza and I are so very sorry for your loss. Joel was such a nice young man. I met him for the first time when he came to Corbin Ky to visit our family (Ali Vaezy) during the fall of 2009. We enjoyed his visit with us so much and looked forward to visiting with him again. Your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely
Janice Hedayati
To the family of Joel, he was a fine person. I had only known him briefly but he was a special person. He will be truly missed by all.
Gayna Woody Edmonds & family
Dear Bobbie,
I’m so sorry about your loss. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. If you need anything please let me know.
From kindergarten to high school I was fortunate enough to have you as my friend. We had lost contact over the years, but on occasion I would hear of your accomplishments and great things you had done with your life and it always made me smile. You will be missed, my friend. The world is a lesser place without you, but Heaven has to be even better now with you there. God bless you.
Your friend always, Billy.
Bobbie, Portia, Karen and Donald,
Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this most difficult time. May God hold you in his loving hands and give you comfort. Joel was a shining light that will be forever missed.
Rick, Carolyn and Keith
I had not seen Joey since high school. I new he was brilliant, but what I remember the most about him was his smile. He had a peacefull spirit. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and loved ones. Godspeed Joey!
I knew Joey since we met in kindergarden and became fast friends, since we both had alot in common. I had just talked to him several weeks ago. Some of the best memories I have of him is trading comics in school at Sand Hill and of playing tennis together in highschool! My deepest condolences to his family. My prayers are with you!
I will miss you my friend!
My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you in this sad times. God blessed the time you had with and you will have the memories to cherish.
Dear Severson Family,
I am so saddened by your loss. I fondly remember Joel’s incredible intelligence and his gentle nature. I was so proud when I learned that he was going to Stanford. It does not surprise me in the least to know that Joel loved Japan. Joel was an amazing person and he will be missed by all of us blessed to have known him. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Matthew Lenoci
Class of 1985
Dear family,
I am very sorry for your loss. I remember Joel so fondly from high school. I can still hear his laugh. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
I have not seen Joel since my Asheville School days, yet my first thoughts on hearing this sad news was of his smile, wit and upbeat spirit.
My prayers are with his family. God Bless.
As I know, there are not words to express the grief you feel. Joey was a very special and very talented young man, only to be more so as he grew older. Just as all of you did, I wanted so much for his excellent mind to give and experience. I am so thankful I could play just a small part in that. As I had been thinking of the many things Joey taught me, one was to…never. never play Trivial Pursuit with someone who has memorized all the cards. My love and prayers for his family. To Joey…………Godspeed!
Lisa King
Joel and I were roommates in Japan and, for a short time, in North Carolina. We drove across the US, travelled Japan, and generally went out looking for fun too many nights to count. I lost touch with Joel a few years ago, but always assumed that we would meet again. Occasionally, I would think of him and his mischevious grin. I missed his wit, decency, and ability to find humor in any situation. He was truly a kind and generous spirit!
Dear Bobbie, Emi, and all Joel’s family,
I knew Joel for three years in Japan, and have thought and spoken of him many times over the years. We lived in the same building and spent many hours chatting, sharing meals and laughing – Joel’s incredible sense of humour and insight were such a huge part of my life then, and I can’t believe I’m writing these words now.He was one of the kindest, most original, intelligent, talented people I’ve ever met, and I know from talking with him fairly recently that he was still living life to the fullest and looking forward to the next new horizon.
Emi, Joel mentioned you often,and I know that you were the love of his life. I am so sorry for what you’re going through right now, but always remember that he loved you so very much, and that love lives on, even after we are gone. Bobbie, his love and admiration for you and his siblings knew no bounds, and please know that many people are sending you their love and deepest sympathies.
Joel, I will always remember you, and feel so blessed and grateful to have known you and to have shared even a small part of your life. Rest in Peace…xoxo
My thoughts are with Joel’s family and friends at this time. Joel was such a friendly and intelligent guy. I lost touch with him after asheville school, but still smile when i think of the long weekend in asheville with Joel and some friends. He will be missed by anyone who was lucky enough to have spent time with him.
I had the pleasure of sharing the expat experience with Joel in Kobe almost 15 years ago. We had a terrific time there, with all of the travel, learning and friendships with a global circle of exceptional people. We kept in touch via email, and Joel’s wonderful wry sense of humor always made me laugh. He touched many people all over the world, and will be sorely missed.
Warmest regards,
Doug
To Joel’s nearest and dearest, with fond memories of his lust for life. Taken too soon but contributed so much. Much love.
Joel was an amazing talented guy. I remember him fondly from my days at Asheville School. He will be missed. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
We loved knowing Joel in Japan. Though we lost touch once we all moved on, a photo of him and Thor, graces our mantle in our home. We look at it often and remember the great times we spent together. We were deeply saddened when we heard of his death. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and girlfriend.
We are heartsick at the loss of Joel. Just know that you are in our thoughts and prayers and that we love you all. Godspeed Joey…
I could not help but think, at the news of Joel’s passing that the World is a little darker, that time will pass a little slower, that the sky will seem a little less blue, the grass a little less green.
In retrospect I realize the error of my ways. Joel’s memory will always bring light and happiness to us. It will always be a reminder of the decency and kindness of humanity, and a goal to aspire to. The only sadness will come from knowing he was taken from us to soon.
To Joel’s family and friends we send our heartfelt condolences and prayers for your strength at this difficult time.
Simon and Mericar
My prayers are with your family — Joel was an outstanding young man , he will be greatly missed
To The Severson family and Emi,
I was fortunate to know Joel during my time teaching in Kobe. I have many happy memories of fun times with Joel and Don in Orange House and in Hanayama. Joel was a kindhearted, generous and talented man who will be missed by many.
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
I am a friend and co-worker of Joel’s. He made my life better just by being a part of it. I enjoyed the times we worked together. He always had interesting things to talk about. He would show me pic of Japan on the computer and how he had lived and worked there. He gave me my name for my new grandbaby that is coming in Nov. Gammie. He will always live in my heart. Such a special soul. I am sorry for you loss. He is on his next adventure! I can just imagine how amazed he is about heaven. He is very much loved!
Sammie
Portia,Bobbie,Donald and Karen,
Jay and I were so sadden to hear about Joel. We want to let you know that all of you are in our thoughts and prayers. We are praying that God will wrap his loving arms around all of you and give you peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Dear Bobbie, Portia, Karen, Donald, Emi, and family… I am heartbroken for you and for your loss. I only remember Joel as a young boy; unfortunately, I never knew him as a young man. But from reading all the heartfelt comments from his friends, I know he was a very special person who touched many lives. You have our deepest sympathy and we wish you the peace of happy memories of your time with Joel.
Sincerely, Patricia Kiser Kirby
Karen, Portia, Donald and Mrs Severson,
I am so sorry to hear about Joey. I’ll always remember your little bother and son. My thoughts are with you.
Joel will always be remembered for his huge smile and twinkle in his eye. Our time at Asheville only overlapped by one year, but Joel always shone high above all his classmates. Hamba gashle, shala gashle. Go in peace, stay in peace.
Portia, we were there and hugged you and your family, but wanted to let you know that we are still hugging you all with prayers, keep your chin up and try to feel the love that surrounds you all. Love you always, Susan
To the Severson family,
I’ve known Joel since he was young enough to be called Joey! My brother Max and Joey were joined at the hip for most of their youth. I remember him as funny and kind and always dreaming big. He lived a life to be proud of and touched lots of people along the way.
My thoughts are with you and with his girlfriend.
Yesterday I received my Asheville School Achievement and was saddened to learn of Joel’s sudden passing. I was freshman the year he was in Germany so I never had the honor of actually meeting him. All his classmates and teachers loved and adored him and he definitely left a legacy behind. It is my loss that I will never get to meet him. My heart goes out to you during this difficult time.
Joel was awesome
Allowing me to start at his house for free in Japan until I got myself going. Who does that.
He was way above most people’s intellect and never let on.
One word summed up Joel.
Kindness