Joel R. Schlueter died unexpectedly on March 18, 2016 at the age of 45 at his home in Madison.
Joel is survived by his wife, Tanya O'Neil; his mother, Janet Schlueter; his brother, Ron Schlueter (Laurie Searing); his mother-in-law, Aino Levajarvi; his father-in-law, Herb O'Neil (Agnes); his sister-in-laws, Tiina Rodrigue (Brian), Tara O'Neil (Chris), Tyriina O'Neil, and Tiia Plath (Daniel); his brother-in-laws Timothy O'Neil, Thomas O'Neil, and Alin Pop; and 6 nieces and 3 nephews.
Joel was born in Wausau on December 19, 1970. He moved to Madison in August 1989 to attend UW-Madison. On November 4, 2001, he married Tanya O'Neil.
Joel had a famous alter ego published by "The Onion". Online, his image was known as Larry Groznic. Unlike Joel's reality as a devoted husband, brother, and son, Larry was a "noted fan-community luminary and sought-after expert on the topics of British television, spy-fi memorabilia, cosplay, RPG adventuring, and limited-edition collectible maquettes."
Joel enjoyed board, card, role play, and video games. He loved the Green Bay Packers. He was an animal lover and had many pets over the years. He was quick-witted, generous, and fun loving. He will be deeply missed by his friends, family, and all who knew him. His cats Grackle, Pixie, Harpy, and Baby Kitty will also miss him.
A visitation is scheduled for 10 a.m. followed by the funeral service at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, March 23, 2016, at Cress Funeral Home at 3325 East Washington Avenue, Madison, WI. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent in care of Aino Levajarvi at 3413 Portage Road, Madison, WI 53704.