Joel Raymond Vaaler

Joel Raymond Vaaler, 67, of St. Charles, MO born July 22, 1957 in Peoria, IL passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by family on September 12, 2024.

Joel spent his entire career in the field of IT, remaining with the same company for his entire career through all of its changes of ownership, making a positive contribution and developing strong friendships with his co-workers.

Joel had numerous passions outside of his work life. These included participating in a weekly pool league (for over 30 years!) with the same team, riding his Harley Davidson near and far, attending concerts and listening to music, reading avidly and watching movies, and playing disc golf. But one of his greatest passions was enjoying the outdoors, especially by spending time with friends floating and fishing on many Missouri rivers.

Joel was a generous, loyal, and kind-hearted man who always tried to see the best in people. Joel’s Buddhist faith that he chose to practice daily at home was important to him, and the traditions and lessons that Buddhism taught him were a great support to him.

Joel is survived by his sisters, Julie (Jeff) Christensen and Jennifer (Kevin) Bochantin, and niece Erin Christensen, and nephews Brent (Dina) Christensen and Benjamin and Ethan Bochantin. Joel is also survived by his step-siblings Fr. William Define, Susan (Rob) Schneider, Nancy (Kevin) Lyons, Mary (John) Juenger, Tim (Jennifer) Define and all of their children and grandchildren. Joel was proceeded in death by his father, Thomas Vaaler, his mother, Lois Vaaler-Define, and her second husband, Donald Define.

Joel’s spirit lives on in the stories and memories we share, the lessons he taught us, the music we shared, and the love he gave us. His quiet presence and sense of humor will be profoundly missed and remembered always.

Rest in peace dear son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend.

A private family celebration of life will be held in the future.

The family kindly asks that if anyone is so moved, please make a donation to the charity of your choice in memory of Joel.