H. Joel Laurila's Obituary
H. Joel Laurila
November 9, 1951 - June 11, 2017
H. Joel Laurila, age 65, passed away in Gainesville, Florida on Sunday, June 11, 2017. He was born November 9, 1951 in Racine, Wisconsin to Jean Elizabeth and Henry J. Laurila.
Joel Laurila graduated from Nova High School in Davie, Florida, then earned a B.S. degree from the University of Florida School of Journalism and Communications. He was a Gator Booster and avid Gator fan.
Mr. Laurila was a kind, generous and joyful man. He was upbeat and had a keen sense of humor. He loved to laugh and make others laugh. One of his special talents was photography, with portraits of friends and family his passion. As a wedding photographer, he made many new friends. He had a keen political mind and was often a fountain of knowledge about Gainesville and the University.
Mr. Laurila had only recently retired from the Hertz Corporation after 39 continuous years of service.
He is survived by his sister, Kaye Elizabeth Laurila of Gainesville, and many loving friends.
A Memorial Service will be held to celebrate his life on Saturday, June 24, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at the Williams-Thomas (Downtown) Funeral Home, 404 N. Main Street Gainesville, FL 32601 352-376-7556.
Joel loved animals, taking care of his cat as well as many others that lived nearby. In lieu of flowers, Joel’s memory can be honored with your donation to Haile's Angels Pet Rescue.
(http://www.hailesangels.org/donate/)
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