Joel Thomas Edler passed away peacefully on July 27, 2021 at the age of 79 years.
He was Born on August 19, 1941 in Freeport, Illinois to Russel and Margaret (Smith) Edler, Joel attended Northern Illinois University, where he studied business and played center for the NIU Huskies. Joel was an avid numismatist and Chicago Bears fan. His interests in collecting ranged from postcards to old toys and everything in between. His real passion was coin collecting, which eventually led him to a career with Krause Publications in Iola, Wisconsin, where he worked from 1985 until his retirement. He served on the boards of numerous organizations in Iola including the Lions Club, The Iola Historical Society, and the Iola Village Board, where he also served as Village President for many years.
He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Judy (née McGlynn); his children: Brian (Laurie) Belson, Bridget Belson, Joel Steven (Yvonne) Edler, Michael (Shannon) Belson, Patrick (Alison) Belson, Thomas (Jennifer) Edler, Christopher (Sandi) Belson, Jamie (Maria) Edler, and Molly Belson; and his 17 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at the Iron Grille Banquet facility at Glacier Wood Golf Club in Iola on Sunday, August 8, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. with Reverend Dale Wilson officiating. A celebration of Joel’s life will follow from 2-4 p.m. at Glacier Wood. Voie Funeral and Cremation Service of Iola is assisting the family with arrangements.