Joe Raymond Corbell

Joe Raymond Corbell, age 79 passed away Monday, August 9, 2016. Joe was born October 12, 1937 in Dierks, Arkansas to Ralph and Ivy Corbell. He graduated from Sultan High school in 1955 and went on to college at the University of Washington for Engineering. In 1959 he married his life long partner Lorena Breitmaier of Sultan. After the arrival of his first-born he was drafted into the Army from 1961-1963. Once he returned from Germany and welcomed the arrival of their second child they relocated to Alger Washington where they have lived for the past 52 years. Joe worked for Corbell Logging and later worked as an Engineer for the City of Bellingham where he retired after 25 years. Joe filled his life with a love for many things. He was an avid historian, sci-fi nut and a great story- teller. He was able to capture anyone's attention, was a natural born leader and his patience showed no limits. Being the social person he was, Joe was happiest being surrounded by family and friends. He loved people and talking with them, no one was a stranger. It was the simple things in life that he never took for granted. He always put the needs of others before himself and had a real passion for serving his community; which translated into years of volunteer service. It was clear his philosophy of living was not materialistic; instead he had a wealth of knowledge and wisdom that he shared with everyone he met. When presented with obstacles and challenges, he always handled them with confidence and the end result was a success. He didn't have an abundance of hobbies, but he loved working in his yard and there was never a time he didn't have a project in the works. His favorite time of year was Christmas, which was very obvious by his display of 40,000 Christmas lights and various Christmas scenes he displayed every season. Over the years he created a beautiful landscape around his home that showed his true appreciation for the outdoors and all the beauties of nature. Joe is survived by his wife, Lorena of 56 years, his loving sister Joyce, his beloved children, Douglas and Phillip Corbell, his treasured 4 grandchildren, Jamie Barnum, Kelsey Corbell, Katelyn O'brine and Marshall Corbell and 5 great-grandchildren Kristopher and Carson Barnum, Emmett Corbell and Elliot and Olivia Grammer of whom he adored. As much as we miss him, we have comfort in knowing he is safe and secure with his Saviour. We love you and you will shine forever in our hearts until we meet again! A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, Aug. 28th at 3:00 p.m. at 2161 Old Hwy 99 N, Burlington, WA 98233