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Joel Greenspan Obituary
Joel loved music and theater and was an aspiring actor. In 1985, he started working at a CD store in Houston in the classical music department, and over the years developed an encyclopedic knowledge of classical recordings. In 2002 Joel opened his own CD store in Houston, Joel's Classical Shop, which specializes in classical, musical theater, and film soundtrack recordings and is one of the few independent music stores still thriving today.
Joel is survived by his two brothers, Herbert Greenspan of Becket, MA, and Michael Greenspan of Giv'at Haim Meuhad, Israel.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joel Greenspan
Richard Albert
July 2, 2025
Sincere condolences on the tragic loss of my cousin Joel Greenspan.
May his name be for a Blessing and may those who mourn be comforted by pleasant memories!
Cousin Richie Albert
Michael john Kitner
March 18, 2025
I still think about you and miss our friendship.
Michael john kitner
June 29, 2021
I sure miss you Joel ......
January 6, 2014
Herb, Mike, and all who loved Joel,
Although I hardly remember him from my days in Springfield and Classical High, I can hear the love and music that surrounded him. I can hear how highly he was regarded by his friends. Such a beautiful and kind family! My heart and prayers are with you as I have just heard, and the one year anniversary is near. My prayer is that you and he may know His peace and that Joel may see His face.
Liz Balise, Springfield, MA; Scranton, PA
Lawrence Fossi
August 15, 2013
I left Houston in early 2011 and am distraught to learn that Joel is dead. I knew him since his days at Sound Warehouse in 1985, and loved visiting his shop on Shepherd. He was a magnificent human being, a great lover of classical music (of course), and a gentle soul.
God bless you, Joel, and give you a lovely ride across the infinite.
Pat K.
April 9, 2013
Going to miss this wonderful guy and all his knowledge of the vast recorded music library available. Peace to you my friend!
Shelli Mathews
April 9, 2013
Wow, I have such great memories of Joel helping me pick what I should purchase at the store. He knew so much about the music I love the most. He will be missed.
Brittany
April 4, 2013
Encyclopedic doesn't begin to describe Joel's knowledge of classical music. He and Mr. John Ferguson made Sound Warehouse and Cactus, respectively, THE places to go for classical. Rest in Peace, Joel.
Nese
April 4, 2013
I worked with Joel @ Sound Warehouse when he started there until I left in 1995. I enjoyed him as a friend and loved his humor. Later I moved to the Heights where he was my neighbour for a few years and visited with him a few times while he was sick. Will miss you and thanks for the night of ecstasy. <---old SW inside joke!
April 3, 2013
So sad to just hear today about Joel's death. I admired him greatly. Becky Lao
March 29, 2013
I remember Joel studying theatre while we both attended UMASS. I enjoyed attending his after theatre party.
Eric Schwartz
Dean Luttrell
March 25, 2013
Houston has just lost one of its gems.
Leonard Warren
March 25, 2013
I visited Joel's Classical Shop on many occasions. I was shocked to learn of his passing.
William Albright
March 24, 2013
Joel was a great friend and valued record-collecting enabler. He performed a great service for this city, and I will really miss him.
Judy (Cagan) Berger
March 24, 2013
Joel was a good friend of mine in junior high and high school band. May his memory be for a blessing.
March 24, 2013
Miss you Joel don't worry i will take care of bear till the end of his life!!!!
James Lepow
March 23, 2013
Joel and I were classmates at Classical High School. He was a great guy and his early death is a sad loss for his family and friends. My condolences to his family.
Rob Everett
March 23, 2013
I'll miss you my friend, you added value to my life. Bear is a part of you you left us. Thanks
Stephen Fierros
March 23, 2013
Joel was a valued member of the Houston music community and will be greatly missed by his friends and customers.
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