Joel Paul Schwanke – Chatfield

Joel Schwanke, 76, of Chatfield, MN died Thursday, September 18 ^th , at Olmsted Medical Center.

Joel Schwanke, born August 7, 1949, in Rochester, Minnesota, to Edwin and Helen (Outcalt) Schwanke, lived a life full of humor and unwavering commitment to the people and passions he cherished most.

A proud graduate of John Marshall High School (Class of '67), Joel was a gifted athlete—graceful on the basketball court, fierce on the football field, and always a team player. He carried that same spirit into college at Rochester Junior College and St. Cloud State, where he earned his degree in 1972 and continued to shine as a basketball standout before shattering his ankle.

Joel's career path was as colorful and spirited as he was—educator, radio personality, Zamboni driver, salesman—but no title ever meant more to him than "Dad" and "Grandpa Joe." He poured his heart into coaching his children's basketball teams, cheering from the sidelines with pride that could fill a stadium. His seven grandchildren were his greatest joy, and nothing lit up his world more than watching them play, grow, and simply be near.

He had a gift for storytelling, a love of music and dancing, and a lawn so meticulously cared for it could rival a golf course. Joel's eyes—an unforgettable shade of blue—were windows to a soul that radiated personality, mischief, and kindness. He could talk sports stats with anyone, make strangers laugh like old friends, and turn everyday moments into cherished memories.

Joel found deep connection in the Chatfield community, where he worked at Sunshine Foods and the Silver Grille. To him, his Chatfield neighbors and friends were his family. His legacy lives on in the laughter he sparked and the stories he told.

He will be missed beyond measure—but remembered with every game watched and every story told.

He is survived by his children – Kelly Williamson (Ben) of Blaine, MN, Brian Schwanke (Anne) of Mantorville, MN and Scott Schwanke of St. Michael, MN; his seven grandchildren – Taycee, Brynlee, Jacob, Carly, Hadlee, Finlee, and Zion.  Additionally, his sisters Rosalind Krier of Millville, Marily Feindt of St Charles, Illinois, LeEtta Edwards of Wabasha, and Karen Schwanke-Oglesby of Monrovia, CA.  He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister.

A memorial gathering will be held on Sunday, October 5 ^th , 2025 from 1-4 pm in the River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Home.