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Joseph Urell Obituary
JANUARY 5, 1945 - MARCH 8, 2023
Joseph T. Urell was born in Yonkers, New York on January 5, 1945 to Margaret (nee Blake) and Joseph G. Urell. He was raised in New York and attended SUNY Oneonta as an undergrad where he met fellow student Barbara Jean McKaig.
He and Barbara were married in 1964 and later relocated to Oxford, Ohio after he earned his Bachelor's degree in Geography. Joseph attended Miami University, earning his Master's degree, and later University of Cincinnati, for his Doctorate. While attending UC, he still lived in Oxford and held a teaching position at MU, which was the start of a 36-year long career with Miami. He retired in 2004 as Vice President of Academic Affairs, earning the distinguished Emeritus title. He and Barb raised their two boys in Oxford and after retirement split time between Ohio and their second home in Maine.
Joseph is the beloved husband of the late Barbara Jean (nee McKaig) Urell, devoted father of Brian Urell and Peter (Christina) Urell; cherished grandfather of Hannah, Matthew, Elijah and Maggie; dear brother of Jackie (Paul) Picciano, Cathy Urell and Margie Urell; also survived by Jessica Huffman, Conner Means and Cooper Means.
There will be a Celebration of Life for family and friends at a later date; please check in again for updates. Those wishing to make memorial contributions in Joseph's memory are encouraged to donate to their favorite charity.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Urell
2 Entries
Susan Mosley-Howard
March 17, 2023
To the Urell family. I held Joe in high regard. He led with such integrity. I so admired his sense of fairness, and the respect he extended to all within the Miami community. I learned much about leadership from him, and enjoyed working with him. My thoughts are with you all.
Mary Woodworth
March 14, 2023
Peter and Brian: your father was the best! I´ll always treasure the years I worked with him in the provost´s office. Joe was kind, compassionate and Miami´s best ever Vice President for Academic Affairs. A truly extraordinary human being who based his administrative decisions on his strong principles of honesty and integrity. Joe was one of my favorite people and I´ll miss him very much. He spoke highly of you and I´m thankful that I saw you occasionally. Best to you both. Mary Woodworth
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