Joel Herbert Hase, 80, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2021, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Duluth, under the care of compassionate health care professionals. Joel was born January 26, 1941, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Edward and Burnis Hase. He was highly influenced by his humble upbringing and the importance of his Trinity Lutheran Church family, which fostered his love of music and provided him with ongoing support as he grew into a young man.

Joel served as a music educator for most of his career, teaching in Prior Lake, Burnsville, International Falls, Kelliher, and Grafton, ND. He directed several church choirs and was especially proud of his work with the Grafton Lutheran Church choir. He spent a few years in the real estate business in Burnsville as well.

Joel loved travel and spent many years exploring on his beloved BMW motorcycle. His travels were a source of storytelling for years.

In later years, he was active in the Viewpoint and Towerpoint concert bands in Mesa, AZ, where he thrived while playing with other musicians from around the country and Canada.  Wonderful friendships were formed during that time.

Joel was preceded in death by his brother Norman, brother-in-law Donald Harder, sister and brother-in-law, Jetta and Larry Feil, brothers-in-law, Michael Savard and J. Michael Porter and sister-in-law, Christine Porter.

Joel is survived by wife, Susan Savard, children Randy (Lora) Hase, Wendy Lim, Matthew (Sara) Koerbitz, Renae (Jason) Garski, and Paul (Heather) Koerbitz; grandchildren Austin, Jett, and Skye Lim, Kelly and Kristen Koerbitz, Jacob, Nathan, and Millie Garski, and Thomas, Anna, Mark, and Katy Koerbitz; sister, Carol W. Harder, and brother, John Hase, sister-in-law, Judy Savard, as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Many thanks to Joel’s coffee group, his many friends far and near, and all those who enriched his life. Per Joel’s request, a “garage party with music” will be held next summer at his home. In Joel’s memory, please support a music program near you.