Obituary of Joey Dale Vansdal
It is with immeasurable sadness that we announce the passing of Joey Dale Vansdal, on October 4, 2020, at the age of 51 years, following a valiant fight with liver disease. He was a loving husband to Sarrah, and adoring father to his sons, Kaden, 17, and Jaxson, 13.
Loved by family and friends, most of whom describe Joey as “the best guy ever,” he was also a best friend to many. Joey was held in high regard for his genuine care and interest in others. If someone needed assistance, you could count on Joey to be there in a heartbeat. He will be lovingly remembered as the guy who always welcomed family and friends into his home, and equally loved to spend time with them. While Joey was often quiet, you knew that he was sitting back and listening, waiting to interject with a witty comment, or something wise to add to the conversation. When with some of his best buds, Joey liked to cut lose, and have fun with the boys. Joey's truest passion for life was found in his time with family and friends.
Joey was very athletic, playing in a number of different sports. As a competitive curler, Joey was the captain (skip) of his team and won the Red Deer Men's Curling League Championship on at least one occasion. He was a strong and avid golfer, and a competitive baseball player. He also played and coached hockey in his younger years.
Joey loved his small hometown of Lintlaw/Kelvington Saskatchewan along with the people there. Born to Gary and Eileen Vansdal, he was the second youngest of four siblings, Leanne, Jeff and younger brother Foster. Joey's parents instilled in him a deep love and sense of loyalty to family. Joey was a great loving brother and cared for and supported his siblings always.
Joey's life career started in Calgary in the drywall business. Joey spent the majority of his working years as a successful, respected and highly dedicated manager, with his final years spent with Kenroc Building Supplies. A former boss of Joeys wrote, “I was privileged to have known Joey, and a better person for having done so”. These words truly speak for all of us.
Joey's boys, Kaden and Jax, were everything to him. They will cherish memories of family trips together including San Diego, Mexico, Cuba, DisneyLand, Vegas and more, along with years of camping together. Kaden and Jaxson know that their dad will be by their side as they travel through life, supporting and encouraging them, keeping them safe, and cheering them on.
A small celebration of Joey's life was held on October 11th at his home. Immediate family and close friends (Team Joey) gathered first to play a game of baseball in celebration of our beloved guy. A warm evening followed filled with shared memories, laughter and tears. Somewhere near, Joey was smiling.
Joey is survived by his wife of 18 years, Sarrah, sons Kaden and Jaxson, sister Leanne (Terry) Shulko, brother Foster Vansdal, father-in-law Terry (Joanne Patchell and daughter Jen) Skene, brother-in-law Jon (Angela) Skene, sister-in-law Erin Skene, nephews Mike and Tyrell Shulko, Jett and Bo Vansdal, Nixon Skene, and nieces Ella and Livia Burry (and their father, Bryan) and Lena Skene.
Joey was predeceased by his parents, Gary and Eileen Vansdal; and brother, Jeff Vansdal.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to the Ronald McDonald House (Central Alberta), 5002 - 39 St., Red Deer AB T4N 2P2; or online at https://rmhcalberta.org/donate/financial-gifts/.
Condolences to Joey’s family may be emailed to meaningful@telus.net.
Arrangements in care of:
Meaningful Memorials Funeral Service
A locally owned cremation and funeral provider
serving Red Deer and all of Central Alberta
587-876-4944