Joel Funfar Obituary
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Joel graduated from Enumclaw High School in 1981 and later graduated from Green River Community College with an AAS degree in electronics. Joel worked several years at Globe Chevron in Enumclaw. He began working in the electronics field at Associated Organ Builders in Auburn. In 1991, he started his career at The Boeing Company as an Avionics Laboratory Technician supporting various commercial airplane programs, where he would work until his passing.
Joel was highly active at Boeing in the Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace (SPEEA). He served in numerous leadership roles within the union, including SPEEA President. He served on many different committees and boards, always supporting organized labor.
Joel enjoyed collecting classic rock albums, live music, history, horse racing, and classic cars. Joel had a unique gift for keeping in touch with friends and family.
Joel is preceded in death by his father, Edward Funfar. He is survived by his mother, Helen Funfar; brothers, Jim Funfar (Patty Evoy) and Jon Funfar (Roberta Chalaris); nieces, Hannah and Katherine Funfar; aunts, uncles, cousins, and many caring friends.
Joel's celebration of life will be held on Sunday, May 7th from 12 to 3pm at Griffin & Wells Cafe, 1239 Griffin Ave, Enumclaw.
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Bill Dugovich
May 16, 2023
Everyone in SPEEA aches for the loss of Joel Funfar. He was a through and through, union activist. From the first day I met Joel when he was walking the picket line in the 40-day SPEEA strike, to his last days, he was a staunch SPEEA advocate and a trusted friend. He always asked about the job and the family. It was never trite - Joel was genuine. He never missed a union rally or the chance to remind me to buy flowers and jewelry for my wife. Rest easy Joel. You deserve it.
Brent McFarlane
May 8, 2023
Joel has been a long time friend. He was a long time trust worthy ally in union work and had the sense of humor and irony that made the work more enjoyable. I'll miss the conversations and the camaraderie of my friend and comrade who always showed up.
Rest in peace. You will be remembered with gratitude.
Aaron Kitterman
May 2, 2023
Joel was always an inspiration and wealth of knowledge for knowing him through SPEEA. RIP Joel
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Sheila Martinez
May 2, 2023
Sheila Martinez
May 2, 2023
Sheila Martinez
May 2, 2023
Joel was one of a kind and I was fortunate to see him weekly through his SPEEA activism and leadership roles over 20+ years. His support for the union, its members and labor was unmatched from Washington State to Washington D.C.
We frequently talked about several common interests~Mariners and music. I will forever remember one of the best days of our lives~meeting Geddy Lee (RUSH). RIP Joel knowing you met Geddy, we got his autographed book and most importantly you were in fact able to personally tell him your idea of making 2112 a movie.
Theryl (TJ) Johnson
May 2, 2023
You will be missed my friend.
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1810 Wells Street, Enumclaw, WA 98022
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