Joel Matsuo Suzuki

I just learned of Joel's passing when I saw it in Macalester Today. I graduated with Joel from Mac in '70. I remember when Joel was a freshman and had never walked on ice before. He was trying to cross Grand Ave to get to classes from DuPre Hall. My roommate and I slid an arm under each of Joel's shoulders and helped him shuffle across Grand and to his classes. He became very proficient while walking on ice after that.

I taught at Burnsville HS from 70-75. I wish I would have known he was living in Burnsville.

My sincere sympathy to all the family and friends of this wonderful man. God bless you all.

Bob Lueben

I was shocked to read of the death of Joel. I also graduated from Mid-Pacific Institute (1969); I first met Joel while visiting my friends, who were attending Macalaster College in St Paul,MN. I attended Wisconsin State University in River Falls, WI. Immediately Joel and I hit it off. Joel would take me around the Twin Cities, and always made sure that I was taken cared of. I always had a place to stay. Joel was a tough, but generously kind man. Although I only knew him for a year (1969-1970), he treated me like a kid brother. He called me friend. I like to treat people the way Joel treated me. My sincere condolences to the family of the late Joel Suzuki family. Let God continue to bless you all.

I was so saddened to hear about Joel's passing. I grew up next door to him and his family in Wailua Houselots on Kauai. Naomi was one of my best friends and I have such wonderful memories of the Suzuki family. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of them. Love and aloha, Winni (Los Banos) Mattos

Nancy, Kari, Jae, and Tim,
I am very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you now and in the days and years to come. I hope your wonderful memories will help to ease your pain. The funeral service was a beautiful tribute to Joel's life.
Thank you for sharing Joel with others including myself. I was lucky to know Joel for 38 years. He was my kindergarten and first grade teacher at William Byrne in Bursville. He was a teacher of life, a role model, a mentor and a friend for the 36 years after that. Joel helped me develop confidence in myself as I was growing up. He seemed to know what people needed and was able to give that to them. He had me come help in his first grade classroom when I was in 2nd through 6th grades. He knew I needed more to be in a teacher assistant role occasionally at that time than to be in my classroom. He taught me to love learning, to pursue excellence, and to follow my dreams. He followed my athletic, academic, and work career through junior high, high school, college and after. We would meet for lunch when I was in town and we would write letters. He would mostly tell me about you Nancy, and your kids, but then listen about my life. He always gave me the confidence and guidance I needed for everything in my life. He was there for me during some important times in my life and some difficult times during my life. Joel helped me become who I am today and for that I am forever grateful. I will miss him very much.

I am so sorry to hear of Joel's passing. Joel was my 1st grade teacher at Byrne Elementary and one of my favorite teachers. I remember how fun it was having him teach me how to read my very first book called "The Sun". I still remember parts of: "please forgive my spelling" Huma huma nuca nuca apu apu and other Hawaiian folklore.

I am so sorry to hear of Joel's death. I remember the days of serving on the CDLC board with Joel, and was always so impressed with his calm and intelligent demeanor. I have such respect for your entire family. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

To the family of Joel Suzuki, I was so saddened to hear of his passing. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.

I had Mr. Suzuki as my first grade teacher during his first year of his teaching career! I will always remember what a wonderful time of learning he imparted to me and all in his class. My love of Hawaii was sparked when he let us experience the islands through his teachings! He made learning so much fun!

I see that he has touched many, many lives and his kindness and love will continue on in those of us he touched so deeply.

With deepest sympathy,

Lori Ruonavar

To the family of Joel Matsuo Suzuki, We the members of Spirit of Truth Church along with our Pastor and First Lady Bean send our deepest sympathy, condolence and prayers to you in your time of sorrow. Mr. Suzuki paid us a visit a few weeks ago and it was a blessing to see him in good spirits dispite the agony and pain he may have been experiencing. We will continue to pray for you that the Lord will comfort and keep you in perfect peace.

Tim and Family,
I was very saddened to hear of your loss. My prayers and thoughts are with you during this difficult time.

Nancy and Family,

I was so sad to hear of Joels passing. It was an honor to have known and worked for him, the best damn boss I ever had !

God Bless,

Dear Nancy & family:

Joel was my kindergarten teacher at Byrne Elementary and such a positive influence throughout my upbringing in Burnsville (class of 1982). Joel provided me with such motivation to pursue excellence with renewed vigor,
that I enjoyed learning to read, write, study as a young learner.

Joel told us about a mountain in Kauai,
named "The Sleeping Giant." In 1978,
my family climbed over this mountain and were hosted a delicious lunch at
(Joel's) Uncle Yasuo's house. Joel had a great talent for introducing people and for insuring each person felt valued as part of a larger family.
We felt loved, welcomed, appreciated by Joel and our experiences were rich!

A month ago in my car en route to work I had a clear image picture of Joel (with cancer) on a lifeguard platform on a beach. There was a person in the water struggling. So Joel got up and entered the water to rescue the person in distress. This was linked with Joel's intense pain and physical weakness as a man able to show strength to help rescue another person.
This was a spiritual rescue picture, clear as clear can be. Joel was such a great mentor and model for me.
email: [email protected]

Nancy and family, I write as a child hood friend and a member of the class of "66" MPI. Joel and I grew up around the block from each other on Kauai, We went to the same elementary school and church. Kapaa community church. We were in Vegas celebrating our 40th year reunion and specualting about people when Joel's name came up. Someone said why don't you Google his name. Donna and Jerry Ching found him and he came to our 40th reunion on Oahu. It was so good to connect again and now we have lost him.

I first met Joel Suzuki when I worked as a summer intern with him in 1973. I had never heard of "cardboard carpentry" before, and I was amazed at how he empowered these little kids with the knowledge and skills they needed to make real furniture! Fifteen years later, I met up with Joel again, this time as one of his students. Joel had an amazing talent in cultivating training and presentation skills in adults. For five years, Joel was my trainer and mentor.

His work with children and adults has, I know, changed the lives of many. His respectful manner, his excellent teaching, his passion for bringing out the best in people will continue through those he taught.

Joel's family, you have been in my thoughts and prayers all week...and will continue to be in the days ahead. He was a great man, and he will live on in all of you, and in the people whom he taught. Hugs to you all.

Amy (Larson in 1973) Schmidt

Tim and family,

My deepest sympathy for your loss. I will always remember Mr. Suzuki with a smile on his face. He was such a nice, caring man, and he had a huge heart. You are all in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Joel was an inspiration and example to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His spirit will live on in his family, friends and loved one. Our thoughts and prayers are to his loving family.

Nancy and family - do you know how well we all knew you - because of Joel's illustrative stories??! Wow - Joel was such a great trainer, mentor and support for educators. That work will continue to impact thousands of students in MN and beyond for many years to come, as the 'Training of Trainers' and other training supports over the years. What a wonderful human being.

Nancy and family, I am so sorry for your loss. The ripples will be felt for miles and through generations. Mr. Suzuki was my kindergarten and first grade teacher at Byrne and the best teacher I ever had. He was born to be an educator and advocate for children. My children have heard many stories about him and what he meant to me. I am thankful his pain and suffering are gone and he is at peace. I remember such a gentle man who deserves nothing less. My prayers are with you in your time of adjustment.

Suzuki Family,

I’m so sorry to hear about your loss of both a father and an husband. It seems like just yesterday He was coaching first base at all of our BAC games. He was always smiling, which is something I will never forget. The world is truly a better place for having known your dad/husband. My sympathies to the family.

Nancy, Kari, Jae, and Tim,
My heart aches for your family during this difficult time, and I wish that I could be there tonight for the services, but at least my parents will be able to attend. That's what makes living away from Minnesota so hard sometimes!

I have very good memories growing up with Kari, and spending time at various pool parties and get-togethers during junior high and high school! I always felt so welcome at your house, as I'm sure all of Kari's friends did. I can still see your dad's smiling/laughing face, kind words, and calming presence! I did not know your dad really well, but I can tell that he was a very special man who made a huge impact on many people.

I cried as I watched the video of the surprise party you threw for him on Kari's blog. What a special way to bring your family and friends together, and I'm sure you are so glad that you were able to do that before he passed away.

I continue to keep your family in my thoughts and prayers...

To the Suzuki Family,
Every interaction with Mr. Suzuki has been a blessing, from his smiles and waves just driving by, to the moments when words and thoughts were shared! Please know that we remember you in our prayers.

Jason, Casey, Codessa, and Marley Bean

Kari, I am thinking about you and your family. Very sad and very tough time. I am praying and believing my dad and your dad meet in heaven and become very good friends. Takako(Tokyo, Japan)

Nancy and family,
I am so sorry for your loss, I had the pleasure of working with Joel through his extended family at Cole's. I will be forever grateful for everything he has taught me and will always remember his kind and generous spirit. He will be missed deeply.

He was the best teacher I ever had! I will always remember him and sing the songs he taught me. My love and thoughts to the family. - Amanda Nachman (his kindergarden and first grade student from 1971-72)

Tim, Kari, & Family, we are so sorry for your loss. We want you to know that you have been in our thoughts and prayers. May the Good Lord wrap His arms around you to help bring you comfort during this time. Remember, tears are a language that God understands.

Tim, Nancy and the rest of the family.

It was such an honor to have known your dad and husband. I respected him and looked up to him soo much. I will forever thank him for his teachings he gave to me whenever I came over to see Tim and while working for him at star thrower. He was an amazing human being.


With deepest sympathy.

Aloha Nancy, Kari, Jae, Tim and all the Suzuki family:

We are deeply and truly sadden to hear that Joel died. Please accept our sincere condolences and thoughts. Although we have not known Joel and his family for a long time we sort of felt a kinship with him due to our origins: being born and raised in Hawaii and making our homes in Minnesota -- "da kine" crazy Hawaiians who came from paradise to Minnesota's snow and cold. We were truly blessed to have known Joel -- he was authentic, bright and so energetic -- always living "life to da max...!" Having known him has enriched our lives and we thank him.

Aloha O'e Joel,

Wayne and Jean

Jae,

Our hearts and prayers go out to you and your family.

~The Olson Family

I met Joel through my work, The Marsh in Minnetonka. I have never met a man I connected with so quickly. His smile through the phone, I knew he was special before meeting him in person. What an honor that was. Love is a little word; people make it big. Joel made it huge. Like the video he introduced me to: Celebrate whats right with the world, by Dewitt Jones, we now celebrate Joel!
He will be missed.

My love to his family....be proud he was one in a million!

Jae, for you and for your family, we are very sorry to hear about your loss. You are in our thoughts.

Jae and family - We are so sad to hear the terrible news. Our hearts are heavy for your loss.

My sympathies to the family and the many people who loved Joel. I will always remember the generosity and support Joel provided to our small, start-up business.

To the family of Joel Suzuki:

Please accept our sympathy for your loss. It was an honor to be with Joel during his final days. May your memories bring you comfort.

Sincerely,
The Fairview Hospice Team

Nancy and family. I was so sad to learn of Joel's death. The days of working with him in "Trainers on Track" were a great experience for me and for the many others he taught and encouraged and challenged. He cared about students and about teachers and used his expertise to improve the interactions between them. My thoughts are with you.

Nancy and family,
I am so very sorry to hear about your loss. Joel touched so many lives through his kindness and spirit. I am honored to have had the chance to meet such a wonderful person. My thoughts and prayers are with you through this difficult time.

Tim and Family- We are so sorry to hear about the loss of Joel. We are so blessed to have known him. His smile would light up the room. Heaven is a better place now that he is there.
Heather & Travis Brown (Lakeville, MN)

Nancy, Kari, Jae and Tim,
My heart aches... but my spirit rejoices in knowing that Charlie and Joel are together once again! They were two of a kind and are hopefully having a good laugh as we speak.
But I also know how your hearts are aching and nothing i say will take that away. Just believe he is in a better place and as my pastor said to me in my darkest of days... " Isn't Charlie/ Joel lucky to be with the Lord right now"
We love you all
Connie Edwards
Katie, Peter and Ann

Tim and Family,
Sorry to hear of your loss. It's been a while since I've last seen you guys, but remember your dad as a very kind and friendly man, and big supporter of our BAC games. My sympathies are with your family.

Jae & Family - I'm so sorry for your loss. Jae, while I never met your father, I know he must have been a great dad to have raised such a great son. I'm praying for all of you. Much love - Danielle

Dear Kari,

My condolences to you and your family at this difficult time. I am very saddened by the loss of your father. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time and always.

Nancy, Kari, Jae, & Tim.

I was so sad to hear about Joel's passing. Please accept both mine & Jason's heartfelt condolences.

I was privileged to work with Joel for more than 8 years. Not only did he impart much wisdom, but his laughter lit up any room. I learned both from him and from the example he set.

Joel was truly a remarkable person and he will always have a special place in my heart.

May God bless you and comfort you during this difficult time.

Nancy,

It was an honor working with Joel and your son Tim. Joel was a great man. He will be missed by many. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Jae, all my condolences to you and your family at this time. I know it was a hard road and I pray for peace for you all. - Sabiha

I am so sorry for your great loss. Joel was a very special man to so many people...especially children. I remember him best when he was at Wm Byrne Elementary School. I volunteered there for 6-7 years and saw him quite often. He was hardly ever standing as he would always squat down to be eye to eye with the students. One of the greatest gifts he gave to this world (other than his beautiful family) was his ability to make "each" child feel as though they were the most important person in the world. Such a sweet man...such a loss! My prayers are with you all...
Julie Truax (Burnsville, MN)

Dear Tim and Family, we are so sorry for the loss of your father and husband. We never had the privilege of meeting Joel but we thank him for raising you! You are an amazing legacy of your father and we are thrilled you will now be part of our family through marrying Kari. We are sending you hugs across the miles. Love, Bonnie, Bob, Mitch, Mallory and Jayson Taylor.

Tim and Family,

My prayers and thoughts are with you during this most difficult time.
Dinna (Minneapolis,MN)

Kari,
You and your family are in my thoughts.

Trista Harris

Kari,
I am so sorry to hear the news about your father. It is not easy losing a parent. My heart goes out to you and your family.
With deepest sympathy,
Diane Corey
Northwest Area Foundation

Dear Nancy, Kari, Jae and Tim - I am deeply saddened by your heartwrenching loss. Joel was so supportive of Sara when she began cross-country skiing with Kari, so it is no surprise their friendship has endured. I wish I could tell Joel how deeply moved I am by a motivational film he directed with Paul Hopkins, called "A Second Chance." It discusses the nature of choice, quoting (my fav) Robert Frost poem, "The Road Not Taken." The web preview ends with these haunting words: "So many people go to their graves with music still in their hearts." Clearly Joel shared the music and love in his heart before his premature passing. His spirit lives on now in you, and in his remarkable body of work. Blessings and love to your extended family,

Jae ~ May your heart and soul find peace and comfort during this difficult time. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Felipe & Candy

Kari,

My sympathy to you and your family in the loss of your father.

Nancy, Kari, Jae & Tim,

We are so sad to hear of your loss. Joel will be joining some very special people (angels) in Heaven, but will be missed so much here on Earth. His smile and personality were contageous! He will live on in your hearts and through your memories. Please know that you will all be in our hearts, thoughts and prayers.

With deep sympathy,
Ben and Maureen (Dwyer) Barker
Max, Ally & Erik

Kari, my condolences go out to you and your family for the passing of your father. May his memory burn brightly in your hearts.

Dearest Nancy & Family; Jason & I send all our love & support to you. Joel was such an amazing person, a wonderful boss & will be dearly missed. xxoo-Ali Mickelson

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Joel was a man who made a difference in the lives of others. He was encouraging and supportive - the kids always loved being in your home. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Nancy and Family: I was extremely heart broken to hear of Joel's passing on Saturday. I have been honored to be a part of the Cole's Salon Team and have been blessed to be given the opportunity to work closely with Joel. His love for his family and life shined at each meeting we had. Never once did the meeting pass by without him mentioning something about Nancy, his kids, his grandson or his mother. Joel was an amazing man and had a beautiful outlook on life. May you find comfort in knowing that he loved you all so very mcuh! May his amazing personality live thru you...

God Bless you always~
Kelly Weber and Family

Tim and family, my heart is saddened to hear of your loss. Joel was an amazing man who was always positive and encouraging. I have wonderful memories of him cheering on the team at your baseball games and track meets as well as him cheering us on in life. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time.

Dear Kari and family - Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. God bless, Liz Wheeler -Litten

We will miss Joel. He was one of those special people who made others better. He was always willing to explore new ideas and he treated people with dignity. It was an honor to know him.

Nancy and family, we are so sorry to hear of your great loss. Seeing the many cars and outpouring of people and love at your home signifies what a wonderful human being Joel was. Our continued prayers will be with you at this difficult time.