Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Joel Baehr Obituary
This world has lost a smiling face and effervescent personality. The universe became reunited with an old soul full of love, knowledge and wisdom when Rev. Joel William Baehr made his transition on Sunday, January 6, 2013. At 5:15 in the morning his wife and love, Robin, and dear friend Ray held their hands on his heart and smiled with him as he passed. Early Years: Joel Boehr grew up in Bluffton, Ohio beginning his journey on September 18, 1929 with parents John and Edna. His brother Dick joined the family two years later. Raised on a farm as a Mennonite, Billy (as he was known), developed a creativity and compassion for his life while searching for additional meaning. While still enrolled in Bluffton College (class of 1954), Billy set off on an adventure sure to change his life. He became a Marine and served his country from 1951 - 54 with a tour in the Korean War (11 months in combat). Upon his return, Joel (as he is now known) received his Masters Degree from the Cranbrook Academy of Art (class of 1956) - his creativity channeled from woodcarving to ceramics to drawing with ease. His natural open-mindedness and curiosity served Joel well as he continued his journey.
Professional Life:
In 1956, Joel experienced what was to be the beginning of his life's calling. While traveling through Montana he encountered Mary Wessel at the Black Butte Ranch. There he learned and studied the teachings of the Unity Movement and was called to Unity Village, Lee Summit, Missouri.
Joel was ordained in 1960 by Lowell Fillmore, son of Unity founders Charles and Myrtle Fillmore. He spread his vision through Unity Churches in Detroit (with Eric Butterworth), Dayton, OH, Bellingham & Tacoma, WA, St. Louis, MO, Butte, Great Falls & Missoula, MT, before joining Unity Church of Mesa, AZ, in 1975. (Note: in 1975 Joel changed the spelling of his last name from Boehr to Baehr to facilitate easier pronunciation). After 37 years as the Senior Minister in Mesa, Joel retired on June 30, 2012.
From 1995 - 1996 Joel served as President of the Association of Unity Churches (now Unity Worldwide Ministries) as well as two terms on the board and multiple ministry teams.
Family Life:
Joel was previously married to Elaine Frantz (13 years; 3 children - Christy, Cheryl and Jim), D'Etta Devereaux (d.1995; 23 years; 2 children - Bryant & Elizabeth) and Kyra Hines (8 years). Joel leaves 4 grandchildren, Grady Baehr (Jim & Linda Baehr), Gwendolyn and Davoren Bishop (Elizabeth & Jim Bishop), and Tessa Greenfield (Bryant & Linda Baehr).
Some 5 years ago, Joel spotted an angel, Robin Tosline, and knew he had found the ONE. And he did. Joel and Robin married in 2010 and live with a connection few in life experience. Being in their presence made the world brighter and for them, complete. Robin has 5 children.
Changing the Channel:
In describing facing death to 7-year old grandson Grady, Joel let him know that he was not afraid, had no regrets and no unfinished business in this lifetime. And that while they would no longer be able to see each other and talk, he would still be with us all. Like changing a TV channel - the show on the previous channel is still there - we just can't see it anymore. Joel remains with us, just on a different channel.
He was a student and teacher of how to live a better life through unconditional love and forgiveness. He continued his teachings until his last breath. Joel passed peacefully of Interstitial Lung Disease on a beautiful Sunday morning. Services:Saturday, February 2, 2013 @ 10:00am at Unity Church of Mesa 2700 E Southern Ave, Mesa AZ. Refreshments and snacks to follow in the garden. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Unity of Mesa 2700 E Southern Ave, Mesa AZ 480-892-2700. Boyce Thompson Arboretum: 520-689-2723
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joel Baehr
Grady Baehr
February 20, 2025
I wasn't old enough to fully understand your perspective on the world while you were here, but I just try to be as kind as you were to me and that's gotten me pretty far :). you said a few things that always stuck with me and I can't ever thank you enough, I still get sad sometimes, but knowing we'll flip to the same channel again someday has always reassured me even being almost 20 now. Again, thank you for everything
Dr. Will Tuttle
January 14, 2022
Joel, you are still a living presence and inspiration in our lives and in our memory, and Madeleine and I send you love and appreciation, knowing that you are more alive than ever as your cosmic adventure unfolds, and alive in the hearts of the Unity ministry in Mesa, and inspiring everyone always to question official narratives and to celebrate freedom and the spirit of joy and lovingkindness for others. Keep shining!
Rebecca Skelnik
February 7, 2020
I will always love you. I will always miss you.
Steve Coombs
May 8, 2019
Joel, thank you for your wonderful sermons , I learned to pray watching you. You would add " and so it is " to the end of the prayer for protection as an exclamation point and I could feel that prayer. I originally came in the mid 80s and then again in the late 80s and early 90s. Unity has been wonderful for me and I believed in it because of you.
Thank you and God Bless you
Ed Blanchard
April 28, 2018
Joel, your Sunday lessons, guiding spirit, unconditional love paved a road for me that made my travels easier. The lessons I learned and put into practice in my own life has opened many doors of joy enthusiasm, love and acceptance. You are a good soul that continues to guide me and, I know, many, many others. Thank you!
Dianna McBride
February 6, 2013
Dear Joel - Your spirit sings in my heart. Jack and I are grateful for the time spent with you and for the beautiful marriage ceremony you performed for us. I am grateful to you for the opportunity of coordinating a wonderful fundraiser for you and Kyra and for you having brought Kyra into my life. So much about you is a loving example of a life well lived. You live in my spirit in memories of affirmations and songs and fabulous stories Patricia O'Connor-Weisman shares with me. Thank you for sharing your beautiful, happy spirit with this world.
February 3, 2013
Dear Joel. So grateful that I "found" Unity church and you and became a member in 2001. It was from you that I learned my "attitude of gratitude", which changed my life in a profound way. Namaste, dear friend and many blessings to dear Robin and your family. With love, Linda Roujon
Laurie (Kubatzky) Daven
February 2, 2013
Joel, you were my minister in St. Louis when I was a pre-teen. I am in my 50s now and scarcely a day goes by that I don't find myself remembering your affirmation: "I Am Alive, Alert, Awake, Joyous and ENTHUSIASTIC about Life!" You so exemplified that statement! My life has been fundamentally shaped by your influence. Thank you, prayers of comfort and peace to your family and friends, and Godspeed on your magnificent journey!
shawna navid
February 1, 2013
Joel what an amazing life to have touched so many of us. We are eternally grateful to have shared this physical experience with you. Thank You Joel for your love and light. Blessings to Robin and all your loved ones.
Rev. Paula T. Webb - National InterFaith Council, President
January 31, 2013
A very gracious man who is now tending to his flock from Heaven. It was an honor to have known him.
Kyra Baehr
January 31, 2013
On the day Joel left our world, I posted this on facebook. I share it hear again as it best expresses my sentiments.
Beloved Friends, today my heart is overflowing with love and gratitude for the life of Joel Baehr. What a treasure this sacred soul partner has been to all of creation and to me in my life. I cannot imagine what my life would have been without the wonderful years with Joel. As he peacefully, radiantly slips into the spheres of nonphysical expression, a collective sigh is heard of awe and wonder - just as you would here amongst a group gathered around a butterfly emerging from its cocoon. Sad to see the form released as we shared in its incredible journey of continual transformation and in delight at its new flight and the beauty of its expression. So my heart is expanded in this experience of profound love. His precious wife Robin says he was so peaceful and I am grateful for her and the God Squad who gathered around him this week (I think it was really the Goddess Squad - Joel always loved being surrounded by beautiful women!). Thank you for being our teacher, friend, minister, mentor, and for a beautiful time along the way, my husband for a time. For all that you ARE in your glorious new expression, we salute the amazing life you lived and the tremendous joy and wisdom you shared with all of us. I love you forever, Joel.
So much love to Robin and all those who have cared so beautifully for Joel and shared this sacred journey of life.
Buddha Bryan
Bryan Shepherd
January 30, 2013
I drove by Unity of Mesa for years. Finally, I got brave enough to attend a service. Right away I heard Joel speak and instantly I knew I liked him very, very much! We were both originally from Ohio and recalled seeing the Amish. He encouraged and gave me 'kudos' while I traveled my own spiritual path. He will be greatly missed. I too know that we will meet again after my own transition many moons from now.
Some of us were lucky enough to attend the retreat at Asilomar in Monterrey in 2000. Those were good memories with Joel and the 'gang'.
Often I remember thinking to myself..."I just wish that I could have 1/10th of the amazing life energy Joel had to help me get through my days and weeks". Never had I met anyone with such energy.
You will be fondly remembered my dear spiritual hero!!!
Heather Morrison
January 29, 2013
Joel you were such a sweet man
Joel, Bill and Robin, 2010
Sandy Raines
January 27, 2013
My beloved mom started going to Unity in the 70's, back in the days when it was in a trailer on Stapley. Joel married Bill and me at Unity of Mesa in 1990, did my dad's funeral service in 1993, and then my mom's in 1995. He came to visit my mom about 10 days before she died and they had a great visit. He was always willing to help when we needed him. He was so supportive of Bill, allowing him to teach many classes at the church and to give the lesson a few Sundays. He and Bill had a great relationship. I will be forever grateful for all the times he shared his love, laughter and light with my family and me.
A few months ago I dreamed Joel was on a median on a busy street, dancing, laughing, and playing a banjo. He was sharing his joy with everyone who drove past him. That sounds so much like something he would do! Maybe he's doing that now.
I'm so glad he and Robin found love and were able to spend part of this lifetime together, even if it was for a short time. Joel and Robin came to visit Bill not long before he made his transition and that meant so much to him.
Much love to you, Robin, and to both your families.
Kelly (Remaklus) Mahoney
January 27, 2013
"You love God only as much you love the least of your brothers." Those words have stuck with me for many years. Joel, you were an integral part of my life along with Bill. I will never forget our experience at Pine Haven and the truthfulness and genuineness you taught everyday of your life. You are a true example of living just as you are and seeing the Christ in each and everyone of our Brothers & Sisters. Thank you Joel. We love you, Joel. You shall never be forgotten.
January 27, 2013
Robin, I'm so sorry for your loss. God Bless you !
Rebecca Skelnik
January 26, 2013
My favorite memory is the stories Joel would tell during church services that always had a funny punch line that caused laughter throughout the congregation. Joel was a fun-loving fellow always happy with a joyful spirit. I admired his plain old common sense and forthright honesty. He did his best in living his life to the fullest. My condolences to his family and friends. Rebecca Skelnik / San Antonio, TX
Lori Wimbish
January 26, 2013
Dear Joel, met you in 1991 when our family moved to Arizona. You baptized our youngest son Johnathan "William " Wimbish in 1992. You liked that his middle name was the same as yours and deemed him an old soul, strong light to others , which he is. You made Unity of Mesa a refuge, a center of peace, and a place of joy and laughter. Your sense of humor was the best. I remember when you inducted me as a member and kissed me on both cheeks like the Europeans do.I also am excited for you to meet James Dillet Freeman in Spirit who wrote the piece "I AM" that went to the moon . You followed in the wake of his spirit and grew your hair as long as he did in his later years. You were cool. You were always "cool". I know you are rejoicing on the other side and can hear and feel our heartfelt thoughts for your new life and share our memories through eternity. I live in North Carolina like you live in Heaven Have a glorious time in your new location. Thank you for being in my life. Love, Lori Wimbish
Pat Flahart
January 25, 2013
As the minister of Unity of Mesa, Joel was an important part or piece of my spiritual growth and understanding of Unity principles. I benefited most from Joel's lessons on being prepared for one's own and loved ones "Transitions".
He always took his time to send me a "Thank you" card. I truly appreciated his song, "Every little cell in my body is happy and well" and Joel lived these words.
Love, Peace, and Hugs,
Pat Flahart Ahwautukee, AZ
Linda Curry
January 25, 2013
Robin and Joel... you both have been such an inspiration to me and I am grateful to have had the two of you in my life. Robin, I am sure you will keep Joel's spirit alive with the love you share with those all around you. I am honored to know you. I will miss seeing Joel's physical presence. What a beautiful soul. Love you! Linda Curry
January 25, 2013
Dear Joel, Meeting you & Kyra back in 1989, and later knowing you while employed @Unity Mesa, was such an honor & time of enlightenment. To this day, I quote you often: "I am alive, alert & enthusiastic about life". What a great teacher, inspired leader & uniquely creative spirit you were for me & so many! You demonstrated that of which you spoke & walked. God's Blessing & tender care in your loss Robin & to all the Baehr Clan members & close friends. Knowing your Joel made life-improving change to many of us whom you may never know. For me, Joel shall remain an elixir/motivator to embrace more of life. I envision Joel embracing joyfully our Next Place of Transition! I look forward to seeing you again,"Sabu". I remain in Gratitude for you & your teachings Joel. Most Sincerely I send my sympathy, compassion & prayers for all those who grieve. We together hold you in celebration of such a well-lived life of love! Light & Love to all, Elizabeth Wightman & Clan~
EagleSpirit
January 25, 2013
May the light in your beautiful soul shine throughout all of eternity. Have a Peaceful Journey My Beloved Friend. You will be missed ~ ES
Eagle Spirit on a sunny spring day 2012
January 25, 2013
I am in great appreciation for all the many things I have learned from Joel. I bless you on your next Journey. I look forward to crossing paths with you again somewhere in the afterlife. All the best to your lovely wife Robin and the family as well.
Blessings,
Eagle Spirit
Will Tuttle
January 25, 2013
Joel, your bright light of joy, lovingkindness, and your spirit of humbly and doggedly treading the path of spiritual awakening has been a priceless gift and inspiration to us.
Traveling, as we have over the past 20 years, to many hundreds of Unity and other progressive churches and centers, your work and presence at Unity in Mesa always stood out as a remarkably authentic and vibrant living embodiment of the eternal wisdom teachings, shining like the brightest beacon in the night.
One thing that really stands out is that you gifted me with a little Swiss penknife that I didn't know what to do with, and then put it on my keychain and now for all these years it's been like my best and handiest friend. Hopefully you don't need to use the one I gave you where you are now!
What a terrific blessing you have been in our lives! Madeleine and I hold your precious memory in our hearts and give thanks for your presence in our lives.
Just by being yourself, you taught us so much about ourselves.
It is sure that you're now busy brightening up the other side!
Sherrie Simpson
January 25, 2013
I am truly sorry for your loss and extremely happy that for the time you had with Joel. My sympathies to you and your entire family.
January 24, 2013
Joel, words can not express the love I have for you and the love I have learned from you. Meeting you has truly changed my life for the better. Your energy and teaching of unity principles has reached so many people and will be greatly missed. But I am sooo blessed to have known you and that will stay with me forever. Love you and thanks again for the memories!
Catherine Vega
January 24, 2013
You changed my life! A beautiful teacher & friend! Words can not truly express my appreciation & gratitude for having crossed paths. I AM eternally grateful!
Buddy Lowe
January 24, 2013
The Joy and guidance Joel showed me I am eternally grateful. Since Oct. 1996 I began my spiritual growth from a great teacher Joel Baehr. Over the years Joel showed me what I didn't see and he taught me to listen for what I needed to hear. Joel once said to me. Buddy it is what it is though you can create what it is. I thought many days what exactly he ment. Then I knew. He ment when living Unity principles you can create your life to be ... you just need to know what you want. I always enjoyed the jokes you shared with me over the years. Thank you Joel Baehr.
January 24, 2013
By Billy Baehr ... you saved my life! So glad that Robin got to experience the true joy of you. xxxoo
Ray Madaghiele
January 24, 2013
Joel, you have been a dear friend for over 25 years. You are the most genuine, transparent soul I have had the honor and pleasure to meet this lifetime. Your lessons, and how you chose to live your life has inspired me and thousands of others. You will always occupy a special place in my heart. Your Spirit has intertwined with my Spirit. Many blessings on your next journey my friend. Enjoy your place alongside the other great spiritual masters--Jesus, Buddha... Thank you for sharing your last breath with me. I will always treasure our last moments together physically. God-speed my friend.
January 24, 2013
January 22, 2013
Our Deepest Condolences go out to the Baehr Family in this time of grief.
~Iva, Mike, & Staff.
Red Mountain CardioThoracic Surgeons
Christa
January 22, 2013
How do you thank someone for strengthening my spirituality more than 20 years ago?....Joel, I hope you know you were a very special light in my life. Your services always filled me with Peace, Love and Joy....You will be missed deeply!!
Elena Meyer
January 22, 2013
Joel you were a friend and mentor for over 20 years. It is an honor to have known you this lifetime.
Happy trails my friend.
Blessings
Cindy Griffis
January 21, 2013
Joel,
I thank you not only for all your wonderful lessons, but for making my friend, Robin, so happy. Because of you she enjoys an inner peace that few achieve. Going to church was fun when you were up there teaching us, Joel.
I thank you so much for all of it!
Steve Swauger
January 21, 2013
The flame you lit will glow a thousand-fold in those you taught and inspired. Thank you for the spark.
Smokey and Mary Berquist
January 21, 2013
Thanks for being a part of my life knowing you made my life better
Robin Horn
January 20, 2013
Love and light on your journey. Blessed for having you in my life. Much love, Robin Horn
Cyndi Ruehl
January 20, 2013
Joel was my introduction into a spiritual life of wonder and amazement some 20 years ago. I am eternally grateful for his teachings and touching my heart.
One last time for Joel- Laughing Jesus
Doug Mathews
January 20, 2013
Allow, Allow, Allow. Probably the most important teaching to me that Joel has given. Love you Joel and Miss you, the true Laughing Christ Within.
Brett Northey
January 20, 2013
I am honored to have known you my friend. You were a huge part of my dearly departed Denise; guiding her through her transition with love and light. We shared thoughts, feelings, prayer and a cold beer or two together. You will forever be in my heart. Can't wait to see you when I "croak". Namaste.
sylvia Muse
January 20, 2013
Joel, you lovely being of light, You have brought so much understanding to our search for spiritual truth. You are loved and will be remembered for all the love and laughter you brought into our lives.
John and Sylvia
Jerry Lanci
January 20, 2013
love and miss you joel soul. you were my beacon of light during a time when if I didn't change direction, death was knocking on my door. you are and always will be the spirit you emitted and look forward to our paths crossing when the sand in my lifes hour glass runs out.
Were ever you are GOD IS!
Namaste 0:)
January 20, 2013
As the minister at Unity of Mesa,Joel changed my life. He offered me a perspective on living that transformed me, and he did it with wisdom, passion, and humor. As a friend, he fully loved and supported me through all my trials and tribulations. And when beloved Robin entered Joel's life, I was blessed to be embraced by her kindness and warmth.I will miss Joel's smile and hugs but thanks to him, I am at peace knowing that he has not really left me... he will be with me, with all of us, forever and always.
Barbara
January 20, 2013
Thank you, Joel, for all that you gave us.
Showing 1 - 45 of 45 results
Make a Donation
in Joel Baehr's name
Memorial Events
for Joel Baehr
How to support Joel's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Joel Baehr's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
