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Joel House Obituary

HOUSE, Sgt. Joel Amos, 22, died June 23, 2007, in Taji, Iraq of wounds sustained by an improvised explosive device while serving with the U.S. Army' s 1st Cavalry Division of Fort Hood, Texas. He was born in Lincoln, Maine November 21, 1984, the son of Paul Clarence House and Deanna Arlene (Lothrop) House. Joel grew up in Lee, Maine, attending the district schools of Maine School Administrative District 30 and Lee Academy. As a youth, he played soccer, basketball and baseball. He loved the Maine outdoors, spending time at his maternal grandparents' camp on Silver Lake where he learned to swim, snorkel, fish and canoe. During high school, he spent summers with his mother in Guadalajara, Mexico, participating in exchange programs and receiving students from around the world. Joel, who had accepted Jesus as his personal Lord and Savior as a boy, was also searching for his life mission to his God. A young man of few words, he found a voice to express himself through the guitar and classic rock. He loved playing video games. Following graduation in 2003, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and trained to be a tank driver. This was Joel' s second tour of duty. He was present January 30, 2005, at the Iraqi Election Day. The photo in this obituary was taken in Iraq on that day. He was wounded March 9, 2007, in an Al-Queda suicide bomb attack on his outpost in Taji. His military awards include Bronze Star Medal (posthumously), Purple Heart (posthumously), Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, 2 awards, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Combat Action Badge, and the Weapons Qualification Badge-Expert Rifle. Joel received his promotion to sergeant June 25, 2007. In addition to his parents, Joel is survived by his brother, Luke House, of Seattle, Wash.; and sister, Joy House of Tampa; his maternal grandparents, Eaton "Pete" and Nancy (Pickering) Lothrop of Lee, Maine and Zephyrhills, Fla.; and paternal grandmother, Annie (Raymond) House of Lee, Maine; many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. This is the first death among 109 grandchildren and great-grandchildren of the Robert, predeceased, and Annie House. Family and friends may call between 3-6 p.m. Monday, July 2, at the Lee Baptist Church in Lee, Maine. A full military honors funeral will be conducted 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 3, at the Mallett Gymnasium of Lee Academy. The ceremony will be co-officiated by Pastor Bruce Swan of the Springfield Community Chapel and the Rev. Steve Wood of Bay Ceia Baptist Church of Tampa. Interment will follow the ceremony at the Woodlawn Cemetery in Lee, Maine. Visitors are invited to the reception in the gymnasium organized by the Ladies' Auxiliary. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a scholarship trust fund to be set up by the family to help children attend summer camps or participate in exchange student programs. Donations may be left at or sent to the Clay Funeral Home, 7 Lee Rd., Lincoln, ME 04457. To leave online condolences, please visit www.clayfuneralhome.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by TBO.com on Jul. 1, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Joel House

Not sure what to say?





B

June 5, 2015

Still thinking about ya house and I know u ripping it up with o'l Steve Ray Vaughn By the drop my brother. B

Nicole Bean

July 3, 2011

Joel,

On this 4th of July, just like all the others, I give thanks for having you in my life. I think often of the time we had a squirt gun fight in your mum and dad's house and waited to see how much trouble we were in! The time we all spent playing pool in the garage is priceless. Please know that we thank God we had you protecting us, your faith and bravery are unwavering!

Missing you today as always and wishing you could see the difference you have made in the world.

Much love!

Peggy Childers

June 23, 2011

To the family and friends of Sgt. Joel A. House:
Please accept my remembrance of Joel on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.

Peggy Childers

June 23, 2010

To the family and friends of Sgt. Joel A. House:
Remembering Joel on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

Kerry House

October 4, 2009

Thank you Joel for your service and sacrifice. I have a Brother named Joel and I too served in Irag from May '06 to Apr '07. I received injuries from an IED near Ramadi in Oct '06. I was in a Trans Co. and made a couple stops at Taji in Route to Anaconda. I believe Joel's patrols helped us complete our missions safely. Rest in Peace Brother.
SSG Kerry J House (Ret)

Peter Simpson

July 1, 2009

Just over two years have passed since we lost our Brother, Joel House. He is thought of often here in Texas.

A quiet man with confidence in Christ.

RIP, Joel. You will never be forgotten.

Peggy Childers

June 23, 2009

To the family of Sgt. Joel A. House:
Joel gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

Pete Cooper

March 9, 2009

I remember sitting next to Joel at chapel every Sunday morning at armor school. Particularly, that when we sang the hymns he knew every word, but his voice was never strong and sure; easily embarrassed by his singing voice, I suppose. And that's how I always knew him, never speaking up and being heard - always letting his actions be his voice. It still aches to remind myself that he's gone. I weep, still, just to know that his wordless voice isn't giving us any new songs this side of heaven. Someone asked me yesterday if I lost any friends in Iraq. when I said yes they asked if they were anyone close. I hope that all of us left behind might earn it. I hope that Joel has found rest, and that he has learned to sing loud and strong.

Amy Giberson

March 2, 2009

Hey Joel!! You've been on my mind a lot as usual. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't stop and think about you and how your legacy remains to change lives for the better. You would be so proud of your Mom, Dad, Joy & Luke and all they are doing to honor you. You have the most amazing family! We all love you and miss you so much! We will never be at peace with losing you but we try everyday to find a way to honor the memory of you and what you stood for. We love you Joel! We miss you sweetie! Love always,

Andrew Emery

November 24, 2008

Just remembering my cousin and would be selfish not to think of you and your family. I have met your Dad and know how he has been there for my family. I know that you two are playing ball again and living in peace, thank you for the ultimate sacrifice, A TRUE HERO!

Anne and Marc LeGare

November 23, 2008

Joel and Family,

We continue to thank God for you and remember you in our prayers. We love you. Please see my tribute at annelegare.org

Safely Home

Michael Iezzi

November 21, 2008

Joel,
Happy Birthday. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

June 30, 2008

You are remembered and respected. Thank you Sgt House!

In Memory of Joel Amos ~ (Debra Estep)

June 23, 2008

Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.


The Wind on The Downs

“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”

(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )

Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….

“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”


I did not know Joel, but I am remembering
his service. He is my hero. !

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Other Side

i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.

can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.

i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.

it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.

i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side

the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.

i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.

Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)

“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008


The Other Side –
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol



Sincerely,

Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom and MIL

Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55

Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
http://tinyurl.com/6gey8b

Peter Simpson

May 25, 2008

I did not know Joel particularly well, but we met several times. We went to church together, and had many of the same friends. I am truly prouud to have gotten to know such a hero, even the little bit that I did. My prayers continue to be with the House family. I know you are comforted that Joel is in Heaven, and I wish you peace.

I will be flying my American flag in Joel's honor this Memorial Day.

God bless you all.

Amy Giberson

May 23, 2008

Joel, you were a man of few words. The words you did speak would only leave people around you with a smile on their face. Even now when I hear stories from your fellow soldiers or your brother Luke & sister Joy and your mom and dad, all I can do is laugh. I love that I have come to know you so well. I'm heartbroken to know that you are not here for me to get to know in person. I just spent this past weekend with your family in Ft. Hood, Texas where you were stationed. Joy and I laughed when we thought of what you might say knowing that I was about to invade Ft. Hood. I imagine your phrases "Ooooh Boy" & "mmm-k". Till this day only me, you & Joy are the only ones who laugh at my "Iraqi's gone wild" joke. That’s ok; it's something just for us then. Your family and I met all the amazing hero's you served with. Knowing how shy you were, you would've hated to see everyone make such a fuss over you, but we did. Every person talked about how amazing you were and how much you've changed their life for the better. How you carried around your Bible instead of "magazines" & your constant use of "oh shoot and Frick" instead of swear words. Our favorite had to have been the videos! The James Bond video, driving through a flood in your hummer, you singing...the list goes on. Joel, losing you took a part of all of our lives. Our hearts are no longer whole with you gone. After meeting all of your friends and hearing ALL the stories ;) we got part of you back. We got a part of you we didn't even know existed. You will live on in our lives always, because we will never let the stories fade. We will never let your memory fade. That beautiful smile will forever be in our minds. There are thousands of beautiful things I could say about you and gone on for hours saying it, because Lord knows I love to talk :) we love you Joel. We miss you so much it hurts! God Bless you!

Love your friend always,

Amy

Polly House

May 20, 2008

Joel,It has almost been a year since you went home to be with our Lord and we are about to celebrate Memorial Day. I am remind of my hero’s how they were willing to give there life that we might be able to live free. I still remember the little boy that use to come to our house. I still can see the little smile upon your face and the look in your eyes that made me think you were up to something. I remember how you were so good with Brandon and always sat a good example, trying to live for the Lord. This year when I attend the Memorial Day service I know you name will be read and a flag will be placed in honor of you and your friend Blair. It seems like you both were just putting the flags around in horror of some fallen soldier. The war is still going on and many people have given their lives for us since you left us last June. Your friend and classmate Blair Emery also gave up his life for us this year. When I go to visit the cemetery you and Blair our right side by side. I feel proud honored but yet sad, Proud because you made a different in so many peoples lives, and was willing to lay down your life that we might be free, and sad because I won’t have a chance to give you a big hug and say thanks. Love Always Aunt Polly

Maari Thrall

April 6, 2008

Joel, I had the chance to spend a day with your father who talked all about you. You are truly a blessing in so many ways. Your testimony and love comes through your father and the people who know you. My God bless you and your family and all of those who are touched through your life.

1SG Jeremy Carey

March 19, 2008

Joel, not a day goes by that I don't think that I had something to do with your decision to join the Army, the same decision which ultimately cost you your life. However, I firmly believe that you believed in what I believe in. I am reenlisting today, on the fifth anniversary of OIF, and I vow to continue that which you cannot.

Michael iezzi

November 21, 2007

Joel,
Happy Birthday in Heaven. May God hold you in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

October 13, 2007

You are cordially invited to attend the “Celebration of Life” Event as we honor and recognize the lives of Our Community Members and Fallen Soldiers we have lost during 2006-2007.
The program includes, a DVD Pictorial Memorial Tribute, Music, Candle lighting, Balloon Release, and Refreshments. Each family receives a personalized ornament to place on a Christmas tree as a remembrance of their loved one.
Families who have experienced loss find this event a wonderful time of remembrance and healing. We would love your family to be apart of this event as our Community joins together to recognize and honor your loved one during this Holiday Season.
We will be honoring all the Fallen Soldiers that were assigned to Fort Hood Texas. If you are not able to attend and would like to send a favorite photo, please feel free to do so.
RSVP By Website www.col2007.com
Call Celebration of Life Staff at 254-245-7061

August 18, 2007

Thank you for the sacrifice made by Sgt House and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!

Sandra Taylor

August 16, 2007

On behalf of Dirigo Chapter, Gold Star Wives of America, Inc. I send condolences to Joel's family and friends. Peace be with you.
Sandra Taylor, President, Dirigo Chapter

John and Heather Morrison

August 6, 2007

To the family of Sgt. Joel A. House: I am writing to tell you thank you for your sacrifice. Your loved one gave all he could give to protect you and me. I don't really have adequate words to use to explain enough how much I care, but I do want you to know that a good friend and high school classmate of mine passed along with your loved one that day - Staff Sgt. Jimy Malone. My husband and I pray that your family is blessed and comforted by God in your troubled time.

Meghan Parker

August 1, 2007

Having lost my brother, SGT. Richard K Parker, I understand your pain. My heart aches for your family. Please know that your family are in my thoughts. Many condelences to your family. Take Care.
"Some people spend a lifetime wondering if they ever made a difference" Remember that your Son, as a solider, did not have that problem.

July 31, 2007

If this person can stand in battle to ensure my freedom, then I will stand in grief with his/her family to honor him/her. For every fallen HERO there is a bright star that shines in the evening sky to remind us of the cherished gift we were given – even if for too short a time.
My heart breaks again as I sign yet another guest book of another courageous young soldier who gave their life so selflessly. I wish I never found myself in a position to have to sign another guest book for the rest of my life, but I promised Le Ron A. Wilson (a dear friend KIA 7/6/07, 18yrs old) that neither he nor any like him would be forgotten and so I will continue until the day there is no longer the need.

PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)

Kim Pelletier

July 21, 2007

Joel, I want to tell you how honored I was to be one of your representatives today in the homecoming parade. The applause and heartfelt thank yous from the crowd are something I will never forget. Although you wouldn't have wanted all the attention you received today, you little cousin are most deserving. A quiet, humble man who we miss and will never forget. Joel you are our hero!
Love your cousin,
Kim

Yornalis Peguero

July 20, 2007

I jus want to say my GOD Bless you and your family my fiancé was in Iraq with Sgt. House (Spc. Montrel s. McArn who was KIA feb.19)and I always heard some crazy story bout what they have done. but I know that those 2-8 cav soldiers will be back and the rest of the heroes will be home...even though ours wont be getting of that plane they will be in mind and in spirit....may GOD BLESS you take care

Paul House

July 17, 2007

Joel, I miss you more than words can say. I have many good memories of us going to church, hunting, fishing, going to the lake canoeing, swimming, playing pass in the yard, playing basketball and many many more. You are a true hero and a brave soldier, thank you for keeping us free. I love you and I know we will all reunite in heaven where there will be no more sorrow, or crying. I love you and cant wait to see you. I will never forget your special smile.

Love Dad

Christie S.

July 16, 2007

It is always hard to lose a loved one, especially so young. But this man was a hero. If it weren't for our soldiers, we wouldn't have the freedom we have today. Feel blessed to have had him for 20+ years, and honored to have a hero in your family.

God Bless You.

Zelime Matthews

July 15, 2007

Hey Joel, I really never got to know you as well as I did the rest of your family, but they always had the kindest things to say about you. I hope you are SO happy up in heaven. We will all miss you dearly! Warm Hugs

Brandon Ham

July 14, 2007

I miss you Joel!! We had so many good times together. Dirt biking, four wheeling, riding on the sea doo, playing video games, playing the guitar, listening & playing Simple Man, and fishing. You were a one of a kind cousin and you are my hero! You will always stay alive in my heart. Can't wait to see you in Heaven. Love you Joel.

Your Cousin,
~Brandon Ham~

violet loney

July 14, 2007

Rest in Peace. As General Pillsbury said at my sons funeral, You are my AMERICAN IDOL. God bless the family, and be with them during this time especially. From the mother of another AMERCAN IDOL

Phyllis Broomfield

July 13, 2007

Rest In Peace soldier, your are a true hero. From the mother of a Fallen Army Ranger.

Dennis (USMC - Vietnam) & Pam Robertson

July 13, 2007

We are deeply saddened at the loss of this brave young soldier, a hero. May God embrace and comfort you as only He can. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
In loving memory of our nephew
Lance Cpl James R. Davenport KIA 11/22/07 Anbar Province

ROBYN GARSIDE

July 13, 2007

MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS. I HAVE JUST LEARNED OF YOUR GREAT LOSS AND WISH TO EXPRESS MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES. PLEASE KNOW THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE OUT HERE WHO DO CARE AND YOUR HERO WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. HOLD TIGHT TO YOUR TREASURED MEMORIES THAT HIS SPECIAL SMILE MAY CONTINUE TO SHINE. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. GODSPEED AND SEMPER FI.

A PROUD MARINE MOM

Michael Iezzi

July 13, 2007

Father we entrust our brother Joel to your mercy. You loved him greatly in this life: now that he is freed from all its cares, give him happiness and peace forever. Welcome him now into paradise where there will be no more sorrow, no more weeping or pain, but only peace and joy with Jesus your Son, and the Holy Spirit forever and ever.
May God hold Joel in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. My deepest sympathy.

Henryk Zaleski (USN-Ret)

July 13, 2007

Rest in peace.

July 13, 2007

Joel is a beautiful Angel in heaven..

Rest in peace warrior...

T~
sister of a fallen marine

Dewayne Standridge

July 13, 2007

Rest In Peace Sgt. House. God Bless You! Hooah!

JDW

July 12, 2007

Thank you and rest in peace.
First Team!

Tom Gugliuzza

July 10, 2007

My heartfelt sympathy to the House family in the loss of Joel. I did not know Joel, but my heart is broken and I am saddened for your loss of such a fine young person and hero. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers. My heart was touched by the many wonderful/beautiful things written about you. Joel you are my hero and you will NEVER be forgotten.
I send each of you a hug from the most inner part of my heart.
Love and Peace
Tom

"To live in the hearts
of those you leave behind
is never to die"
~Robert Orr~

Joy House

July 9, 2007

I miss you little brother. Words cannot express the emptiness we feel without you. I'm going to miss your witty one-liners, your upside down frown/smile, singing and playing guitar with you, kayaking at camp, forcing you to buy new clothes, the list goes on. I know you're watching over us. Take care of Mom, Dad, Luke, and Me! I hope I have a little baby boy someday so I can name him after you!

Love you and miss you! I can't wait to see you in Heaven!

-Your Big Sister

Michele and Fred Fuller

July 8, 2007

Our son-in-law, Brandon Benton, is privileged to serve with and know Joel. We've seen several pictures where they seem to be shoulder-to-shoulder and sharing a private joke. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this most difficult time. Joel is a true hero and we are grateful for what he has done. God bless him. I hope you are able to attend the Ft. Hood Memorial, because it will be an honor to meet you.

Patty Terry

July 7, 2007

To the family of Sgt House. There are no words to express my sorrow for you at this time. I am so grateful and humbled by your son's/brother's sacrifice that you and he made so we can continue to be free. You are in prayers and I know Sgt Joel is watching and protecting from above.

Nicole Worster

July 6, 2007

Joel, Ill always remember you as a classmate and friend. From what ive heard from so many people, you were also an amazing soldier. You will be deeply missed by so many, including me.

Though our hearts ache,
and pain is what we feel,
Its through knowing your with God,
that we all can start to heal.

Joscelyn Spivey

July 6, 2007

No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.

Gary Allain

July 5, 2007

Sgt.Joel A. House
you are my hero
may god keep you in his arms forever.

Steve and Leeann Burke

July 4, 2007

Paul, Deana, Luke, and Joy,
You already know how I feel about you and your son/brother. I will never forget the honor you bestowed upon me, Brad, and Peter, by allowing us to be a part of Joel's ceremony. I told you we had our own reason's for coming. We needed to get whole again also. And the moment I was introduced at the ceremony as family you helped to start filling the whole I have in me right now. I hope we helped fill up a little bit of the whole you have also. Don't forget to check the camp journal, I left a couple pictures for you. "Love always" from my family to yours. 1SG Steven Burke, 1st Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, Rear Detachment CSM, Fort Hood Texas. ( I also had the honor of being Joel's 1SG the first time he deployed in OIF II 2004-2005, Bravo "Bulldogs" Company, 2nd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1CD)

Alma Becerra

July 4, 2007

I am so sorry for your lose. You and your family are in my prayers. God bless all House family.

Katie Higbee

July 4, 2007

I met Joel at FBC Copperas Cove and had so much fun hanging out with him. He was such a sweet guy and a gentlemen and could make anyone laugh no matter what. He was very humble and sincere in everything he said. He will be missed very much.

Kathy "Farnsworth" Harris

July 4, 2007

To all my House cousins however distant or close, my thoughts and prayers are with you all during this most difficult time. Be always proud of Joel for he truly is a hero.

Shelby and Debbie Smith

July 4, 2007

I once joked with Joel about becoming his "hunting customer" when he got out of the Army and became a hunting guide back in Maine. That will wait now as I know he waits in heaven with our Savior for all his loved ones. It was my privelidge and honor to have known Joel.
I Thes. 4:13-18

Kathy McDonald

July 4, 2007

I am so very sorry for the lose of your son. I know your pain. I lose my son Sgt. Edmund McDonald, 3/28/07 in Afghanistan. There re no words that will make this any easier, just know that my family will be praying for you and your family. If I can be of any help please email me.

Mark Fields

July 3, 2007

Joel. Thanks for your service to our country. Rest in peace.

Tricia Luttrull

July 3, 2007

Thank You Joel for giving your all for my freedom. God Bless the Family.

DENISE KNIGHT

July 3, 2007

OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU IN YOUR TIME OF GRIEF. MAY YOUR MEMORIES BRING YOU COMFORT.

(in remembrance of my son-in-law Sgt. Edmund W. McDonanld.. 3-29-07)

Bryne and Brendan Martin

July 2, 2007

Our prayers are with your family. It is a comfort to know that Joel is at peace with God. We will remember Joel for his kindness and strong faith, and his bravery and courage in serving America is a blessing. He will be missed. Your family will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers.

M Mead

July 2, 2007

Joel, we will miss you greatly here in Copperas Cove. I remember decorating the Christmas tree together with all of our friends, playing board games, and just socializing. I remember the day you started to play "Sweet Home Alabama" on your guitar but you couldn't remember all so you played parts of it and we would all just laugh. We had so many get together BBQ, can't even pick out my favorite one. We would all ask you to play a song or two but you would get so shy and always refused. You playing guitar is one of my favorite memory I have of you. Joel, thanks for being a great friend and I will always remember you.

I know you are with God now....

Marc and Anne LeGare

July 2, 2007

Dear House Family,

It was our honor to have known Joel and we will always remember his quiet spirit, purity, and helpful heart. First Baptist Church Copperas Cove, TX, mourns with you in your loss, but rejoice in his great salvation. Joel was a member of "the gathering," a group of young adults who met weekly to worship Christ. He was also a member of the singles Sunday School class, and available whenever anyone needed him. He was quick to offer scripture when people needed encouragement. Joel was remembered at our church's patriotic service on July 1st, with celebration and tears. Because of our testimony about him, a young man came forward and rededicated his life to Christ that day. Your son's memory lives on while he awaits us in heaven.

Pam Farnsworth

July 2, 2007

As one of the more distant cousins of Joel, I did not know him well --I myself was serving in the Navy for most of his life. My mother was born and grew up in Lee and we know the family well. I know how hard it is to lose a son and a soldier and my heart goes out to the family.

Joel is one of our own family heroes and will live on in spirit with us and I take comfort in the fact that he is in good hands even now.

We all know that freedom is not free -- and Joel paid the ultimate price. But he was proud of what he was doing, and I for one am proud of him.

Michelle Curtis

July 1, 2007

I am so sorry for your loss. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you.

Cynthia ,Jokinen( Gardiner)

July 1, 2007

Joel you ae a brave young man, who died too young. Your family friends and all those who knew you will always remember you and are sad you are gone. My deepest sympathy to all those who knew him. Joel, RIP Cynthia Jokinen

Pam Madore

July 1, 2007

As part of Joel's extended family, I am proud to know that he was willing to pay the ultimate sacrifice in the name of freedom. It is because of brave men and women like him that our future on this earth can be preserved in freedom. Blessings to all of those that have been touched by the loss of a loved one in war.

Dee House

July 1, 2007

I miss you so much, Joel. You will never be forgotten. You are not only our hero, but the hero of all those who knew and loved you.

"It is my earnest hope - indeed the hope of all mankind - that from this solemn occasion a better world shall emerge out of the blood and carnage of the past, a world found upon faith and understanding, a world dedicated to the dignity of man and the fulfillment of his most cherished wish for freedom, tolerance and justice."
- General Douglas Macarthur

July 1, 2007

Disabled American Veterans, Chapter 19 extends it's condolences to the family and friends of Joel Amos House who was killed while serving his country.

Janet Mattson

June 30, 2007

Our fallen hero, Joel, will never be forgotten and I thank you for your service and ultimate sacrifice to our country.

My deepest thoughts and prayers for his family, in this great time of sorrow and need.

from a mother-in-law of one serving in Baghdad and a proud Soldiers'Angel.

Janet Kelley Soldiers Angels

June 30, 2007

With my deepest sympathy to SGT House's family and loved ones. Please know that his bravery will never be forgotten.

Jolene Maynard

June 30, 2007

I am extremely sorry to hear of your loss, and I pray God will wrap his arms around you and your family to comfort you during this time.

Ronn Massie

June 29, 2007

God bless the family and friends of Joel.
You will all be in our prayers.
Thank you Joel for being such a brave hero.

(In remembrance of Cpl. Joey Cantrell 4-4-07)

June 29, 2007

To the Family and Friends of this Soldier:
I will stand in grief with this soldier's family to honor him. For every fallen HERO there is a bright star that shines in the evening sky to remind us of the cherished gift we were given – even if for too short a time.
My heart breaks again as I sign yet another guest book of another courageous young soldier who gave their life so selflessly. I wish I never found myself in a position to have to sign another guestbook for the rest of my life, but I promised Brent that neither he nor any like him would be forgotten and so I will continue until the day there is no longer the need.
We lost our son SFC Brent A. Adams on 12/1/05 and it seems like yesterday. I wish so badly there were things I could say to you right now to make the pain you are feeling go away, but I know first hand there simply are no words that will bring you the comfort and peace your heart aches for. Just know that you are not alone. My heart, thoughts, and prayers are with you all as you go through this tragedy moment by moment and as you mourn this loss.
We don't know each other, will probably never meet, but will forever be united in the loss of our Heroes. We have, unfortunately joined a group none of us wanted to join, an ever-growing group of families in this situation. May God grant you peace and strength to get through this and be able once again to smile at a memory rather than have only the tears that flow so easily now. To be so proud of your loved one and so saddened at the same time is a mix of emotions very difficult to deal with as our hearts both burst with pride and pain together.
I am sorry that I never knew your soldier personally. While they can never be replaced, neither will they ever be forgotten. You must trust that sometime, someday the loving memories you have will help to sustain you and help you go on. This courageous soldier will forever be your Angel watching over you all for the rest of your lives. It's what brings me some measure of peace and comfort and I hope it will you as well.
To his family and friends in pain, I offer this comfort: When you find yourself in that dark sorrowful place, think not only of how you will miss him, but instead recall the years, days, hours and minutes gifted to you by his presence. The one thing that cannot be taken from you is your wonderful memories that now will mean more than ever.
If you ever want to talk, I'm only an e:mail away and would love for you to tell me more about your Hero.
God Bless this soldier and family who gave all and God Bless legacy.com for setting up this site where families can so quickly share their condolences and prayers with others like themselves.
Proud Parents of SFC Brent A. Adams, KIA, 12/1/05, Ramadi, Iraq
Pam and Bill Adams, Lancaster, PA

Karen Crise

June 29, 2007

Dear Joel,
You died for my freedom. You are my hero. Thank you.

Kathy Crise

June 29, 2007

It is amazing to see the extent of Joel's community. Joel is my "baby" nephew and as his family moves forward with our lives, the worldwide community in support of brave men and women like Joel is so valuable that I want to thank everyone who has the House Family on their prayer list and in their thoughts. Thank you because you are part of what Joel believed in!

Garnet Jenkins

June 27, 2007

Please accept my Deepest and most heartfelt sympathy regarding the loss of Sgt. Joel A. House. The price this Brave Young Soldier and his family have paid for this country and for freedom, Will Never Be Forgotten.
There is so much thanks to be given, to these young heroes, for their Courage, Dedication and Service.

May Joel rest safely now, in God's Care and may God's Loving Grace Bless the House family.
I am the sister of such a young hero, who made the Ultimate Sacrifice in Vietnam, many years ago.

"Wait on the Lord, be of good courage
and He shall strengthen your heart"
~ Psalm 27:14 ~

May the Peace of God and your precious memories of Joel, remain in your heart always.
May this give you comfort and strength through the difficult days ahead.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Linda Clifton

June 27, 2007

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

valorie

June 26, 2007

My prayers and thoughts are with you.
I know how you feel losing a "HERO",Becoming a "Gold Star" Mother myself on 25 March.. The sacrafice our sons and daughters are making on a daily basis should tell us all..These young HEROS knew full well what they were doing and did it proudly When you hug your loved ones tonight.... Remember... We also hugged ours and now they are protecting you..We.. as Americans need to make the "Ultimate Sacrafice" by supporting all our military(HEROS)...the Proud Mom of SGT. Jason W. Swiger
5th Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne,Fort Bragg, N.C. KIA 3/25/007

debbi rivers

June 26, 2007

Though this soldier is not yet known except for their unit or families, my grief for the loss of you son/daughter is felt. I know what it's like to loose your child in war as my son was KIA 11/12/06 in Samarra, Iraq SPC Harry (Buck) Winkler III. It feels that your heart has been ripped from you and you don't understand why this happened to your child. I've felt all you will feel in the coming days and weeks and though I"m not close I am very close by email. I offer any support to you and your family that I can. It's with the Grace of God that I've gotten through each day and with His healing love and comfort that I've been able to once again sleep at night and not cry each day. Believe me I do know how hard it is. May God continue to heal you and your family and contact me when and if you are ever ready, even if it's to vent or cry. Mother of another fallen soldier

Gary Allain

June 25, 2007

you are my hero
may god keep you in his arms forever.

Sandy Bonesteel

June 25, 2007

As the mother of a son (my only child) who is enlisted in the Army, I want to send my condolences.

Carol Cline

June 24, 2007

Know in your heart that you are a true hero and will never be forgotten. All gave some, some gave all. Rest in peace. You will be missed by everyone’s life you have touched.

To the family, as the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family, friends, and all Americans for the sacrifice of one of your family members for our freedom. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May you find comfort in the loving embrace of our Heavenly Father.

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