Joel H. Walraven

Joel H. Walraven, age 86, of Wilmington, passed away Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at Hospice of Cincinnati, Blue Ash.

He was born January 9, 1940, in Wilmington, the son of the late Forrest "Archie" and Vivian "June" (West) Walraven.

Joel is survived by his children, Christoper (Emily and Sophia), Jessica (Noah and Kylie), Robert, Diana, and Joni; and his brother, Jay. He is preceded in death by his parents Forrest and Vivian Walraven; his wife, Terry (Singer) Walraven; and his sister, Jenna.

Dad's love of sports and a multi-decade Bengal season ticket holder during the time the team resided in the old riverfront stadium. During this period dad and mom attend Super Bowls XVI and XXIII and once relinquishing their season tickets they enjoyed the warmth of their living room and instant replay.

His joy of driving and just taking a “ride” whether it was to unwind or on Sunday’s waking up and suggesting a restaurant many times several counties away which meant driving an hour or more just to eat and turn around and come home.

He found it therapeutic and a joy to spend time doing yard work or gathering with family and friends playing cards and his love of dancing is known by all his friends. He stated many times his emptiness he felt losing his dance partner after mom’s death. Today, he has rejoined his dance partner and loving wife. They are back and “cutting a rug” across the pearly gates.

His love of Elvis and Jerry Lee Lewis to old country music ballads from George Jones to Willy Nelson, Waylon Jennings to more recent country singers such as Brooks and Dunn. He always enjoy listening to a song from Jimmy Buffett and enjoying his patio and backyard.

His life long yearly stays in Florida ranging from weeks to years created memories that lasted his lifetime dating back to his earliest of years dating back over 80 years. The times he spent fishing in Chokoloskee and winter home in Everglade city with his wife Terry always brought back fond memories when he was chatting about Florida. Then later in life back to the east coast of Florida with a winter home on Hutchinson Island. The final years wintering with Christopher and his children Sophia and Emily with Karol popping in Sewell’s Point, Florida.

The last several years have been dedicated to his grandson Noah and granddaughter Kylie as he transitioned year-round back to Ohio. He loved the change of seasons and having Noah by his side during his daily odysseys. He also enjoyed many Thursdays with Jessica having Joe’s pizza at what he considered the #1 in pizza the country.

More recently the time spent with Miranda his granddaughter and her children Haley and Blaine and great great grandson Kyler. The memories created with their grandfather brought joy to him in his final days.

As we say our final goodbyes for me it easy to close my eyes and visualize Dad and Mom together gliding across the dance floor dancing to anyone of their favorite songs as they begin their new chapter united as one for eternity. We leave here today with our hearts not filled with sorrow but joy knowing Joel and Terry are together once more.

Funeral services will be held 10:00 a.m. Friday, May 15, 2026, at Brown Funeral Home, Wilmington. Burial will immediately follow in Sugar Grove Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday, May 14, 2026, from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

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