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Joseph Sodd Obituary
This obituary was originally published in the Star Tribune.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Angel Stephens
February 10, 2025
Hi I just saw his story on the first 48 and I am so sorry for your loss! May God give you the strength and comfort always and just know that he is dancing in heaven!
Kim Price
January 19, 2022
I'm very sorry for your loss, I just saw his case on first 48 and wanted to extend my condolences. I know he's dancing with the Angels
Cindi Pastores (Markfort)
June 15, 2021
Every time I hear this name or see his face I smile and remember all the wonderful qualities he had, watching him become a fine young man was a privilege
Daniel Gadomski
January 16, 2021
To the Sodd family, I'm sorry for your loss. Although I never knew this fine young man, I was struck with sorrow after seeing his case profiled on The First 48. It's such a tragedy that the world will never get to see just how much more joy he could have brought to it through his artistry. Rest in Peace buddy.....
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Iesha Dean
October 19, 2020
I'm so so sorry he looked like a very promising dancer I'm sorry your life got taken so very young keep on dancing my friend
L B
April 18, 2020
I just saw this case on The first 48 and I cant even imagine the pain his parents are still going through. I hope you find peace within yourself and God grant you Tye serenity you need.
Lisa
July 1, 2019
Some people change a small moment in your life. Others, though, change who you are and that affects the rest of your life. Joe was one of those people. it's been so many years, yet I am forever grateful for those moments and for so many random memories - for jumping too high, for crimson & clover, for the "it's just a fact" moments. I miss you, Joe.
III
Jono
June 18, 2009
I too saw this story on "The First 48" and was saddened by what I saw.
May you're soul grace the heavens.
Jessica Nelson
May 20, 2009
Joe, I didn't know you but i knew who you were, we went to South High together. Im very sadend by your loss and my heart and prayers go out to you, your friends and family. You will never be forgotten. May you RIP forever!
Shane
May 19, 2009
May you take some comfort in that people all over the world share your grief. There are no words, a sad end to a bright future. Im so sorry.
Pearl Hood
April 29, 2009
I didn't know Joe very well. But I remember feeling really shy at his house once when a lot of people were over. He took the time to make me his delicious cream cheese and fried egg bagel and I remember feeling really welcomed by him for that and I appreciated it a whole lot since it still stands out in my mind. It wasn't hard to see his warmth and kindness. Two years ago I spent some time with his brother in Baltimore when he was in town. We caught up and talked and it was clear how much Joe has influenced him in really great ways. I am so sorry for your loss, Sodd family.
Eric Green
April 24, 2009
I just saw this story on The First 48. How horrible. My heart goes out to the Sodd family.
J Bloomrosen
March 20, 2009
Though I never had the honor of meeting Joe, his story has moved me deeply. It is obvious that he was a beautiful young man whose positive energy touched everyone he met. His untimely end was a senseless and tragic loss for the world.
His spirit lives on, and continues to affect us all. My condolences to all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
LaShell West
March 20, 2009
I didn't know you Joe, but my heart goes out to your family and friends. It breaks my heart to know your life was taken so senselessly. May you now sit at the right hand of our Lord and Savior, and may you dance forever in the Heavens. Be at peace friend. My love and prayers will be with you forever.
Annalee Tomsicek
March 5, 2009
I never wrote in this and I feel like I should. Not a single day goes by that I don't think about Joe. I hadn't seen him in over a year and I was already missing him. I will never ever forget the first time I met him, we did back handsprings in my front yard. I'm pretty sure he did the splits too, haha.
I love you so so much Joe, I'm sorry I was oceans away and we never got to tango. You influenced my life so much and that will always live on in so much of the music I listen to and the dance that I dance. Thanks for that, and thanks for always walking me home, I didn't forget it. Peace to all of your family, see you on the 18th.
mia boles
November 30, 2008
i did not get close to joe but i meet him and i was taught a little part of his dance. i loved it and he was so nice and when i heard that he was killed i felt so sad i almost cried.
let joe sodd III rest in pess.
Tara La Valle
November 24, 2008
Joe was an amazing dancer and teacher. He brought so much to OOAL, and I'm sure he brought so much everywhere he went. We all miss his presence every day. Just reading the entries of the guestbook tells me that he is still in all of our hearts.
candice fuller
November 23, 2008
I did not know Joe personally, but one of my best friends knew him, and I saw her grief. The dance recital I went to shortly after his death, was amazing and touched my heart. Rest in peace Joe.
Monilade Walker
September 16, 2008
I remember when I first met him, I was intrigued by his amazing since of self and I wanted him to be in my dance. He was extremely witty and always positive, not to mention talented. I am so glad to have had the chance to perform with him and he will always be a part of my developing dance world. My heart goes out to his family.
Alicia Stamps
September 3, 2008
I had class with Joe in the Fall of 07. It was a class about Hurricane Katrina. I just remember him being such a thoughtful, outspoken, brilliant and passionate student and young man. I never saw him dance but if he moved with as much grace and fluidity as when he spoke, his friends, family, the Cornish family have lost just as much as the dance community.
kalista and chelsea Swanson and Montgomery
August 9, 2008
dear joe,
even though we never knew you we wish your family good luck and happyness we are sorry about the incident we are very sad.
Simone currie
August 5, 2008
though I only met Joe a few times I will always remember him. I have no doubt that he touched many hearts and lives. He will always be remembered and will live on in many peoples lives
Elisa Reed
July 9, 2008
I always looked forward to what Joe brought to the table at Cornish. He was an amazing student, an encouraging peer, a great dancer and a genuine person. We think of him everyday. Thank you for all the moments that we shared with him.
Robin Lind
July 8, 2008
The Dance Tech family will forever remember Joe! He was an incredible instructor, incredible dancer, incredible human being! He was definitely one of our MOST favorite guest instructors! We will miss him, his talent, and his wonderful warm personality! We just loved and adored him! Our thoughts and prayers are with you all!
jessica finn
July 5, 2008
dude joe, i will think of you every single day for the rest of my life. i love you, babypuppy...xoxo
Jennifer Bryan
July 2, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We are so sorry for the loss of your wonderful, beloved son and brother.
We know his dreams will carry on through his memorial fund, to inspire other young artists and dancers to persue their dreams with love and passion for life, art and friends.
The Bryan Family
Jenny & Fred
Adara, classmate of Joe (Perpich class of 2005, Music)
Ellie, friend of Alden (Perpich class of 2007, Media)
Joe Pollock
June 30, 2008
Joe was one of those people who you could always talk to and he'd listen. I remember him for his enthusiasm and happy spirit. What a tragedy that he is gone too soon. He will be missed greatly. My deepest sympathies to the Sodd family.
Audrey Johnson
June 28, 2008
I came upon your memorial page thru a friend, and that's how I ended up here. I have never met Joseph, but his loss is felt never-the-less. It's crazy how someone can touch a person they've never met. I send my love to those who have lost him in their lives, it's obvious he has a soul of gold
Elisa Gomez
June 27, 2008
Jess and I are so sorry for your loss. Such a beautiful soul and such a tragic loss for the world. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
Dykerson
June 26, 2008
I love you Joe Sodd. You will always be remembered, loved and missed....
Christin
June 26, 2008
Honest.
Outgoing.
Warm.
And a good heart.
Joe, you will truly be missed.
Kelly Rodriguez
June 25, 2008
I am so sorry to hear about your loss, i went to middle school with Joe and Alden, you'll be in my prayers.
Jenifer Ward
June 25, 2008
Dear Sodd Family,
I wish you could have been in the dance studio at Cornish yesterday to hear Joe's classmates and teachers remember him and to see them offer him an impromptu farewell dance. How they loved him. How moved I was to be a part of the gathering.
Peace to you.
Cindi Markfort
June 25, 2008
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Joe always made me smile as I measured him for his costumes all those years at VLDS......oh how he made me laugh.....my thoughts and prayers are with all of you
Kim Martinez
June 24, 2008
Dearest Liz, Joe, and Alden,
The memorial service for Joe III was an inspiration of strength and a true testament to the love that Joe III brought to those fortunate enough to have had him in their lives, even if all too briefly. It is so apparent to me that his loving nature came from all of you, his strength and fearlessness came directly from his confidence in your limitless love for him. I know that words can't bring him home, safe, only to give you one more magic smile, and it pains me deeply that this all I have to offer in the reflection of my own narcissistic grief, but know that I hold all of you, in my deepest heart, with all my love and sympathy.
Kim Martinez
Spencer Knutson
June 24, 2008
Dear Sodd Family,
I know how sad you are and miss Joe. He was fun to watch dance and I liked him as a teacher too. I know he is in heaven with my dad. My mom and I pray you find comfort in knowing he is with GOD. Missing him is the hardest feeling to go through.
Mike Tracy
June 24, 2008
Jody, Liz and Alden,
I am so saddened by Joseph's death. I keep you in my prayers and thoughts.
Courtney Comes Flying
June 24, 2008
Joe, Liz, and Alden~
Joe's memorial was definatly a celebration of his life. It was very emotional but made me smile through the tears. Joe was such a free soal that could make a good thing out of anything. I have a few good memories with him and Alden. I want to tell you both that you have raised great boys and you have such a strong family, i know you will pull through this extremely difficult time. And to Alden, I am very proud of you. You are pursuing your dream. Joe is with you. love, Court
Laura Wiski
June 23, 2008
To the Sodd Family-
Your son was such an inspiration to all who danced with him, including myself. I admired his determination and daring spirit in class. I felt grateful to learn his senior thesis and feel like I now have a piece of him with me that I will never forget. The memorial service yesterday was so beautiful and well put together. I send my condolences to your family and to all who knew him.
--Laura
"He danced like a star, now he dances among them"
Marjahn Golban
June 23, 2008
I Went to Marcy with Joe and I never forgot him. He was an amazing kid. I will always remember his amazing energy.
Lyndon Ludford
June 23, 2008
It is hard to bring the right words to bear on such a tragedy, however I hope that the incredible positive energy of Joe III will come back to his family and friends to help sustain you all in these tough times.
TERRI VESEY
June 23, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with Joe's family during this very difficult time. I have had the joy of watching Joe perform during his time at Cornish as my daughter, Danielle Vesey was a classmate and partner of his at school. I can't imagine the loss of a child and you will remain in my prayers.
Jeremy Bryant
June 23, 2008
I’m deeply sorry for your loss. Though I have only met your boys a few times, it was obvious that Joe was the kind of kid you didn’t need to know well in order to see that he had a brilliant soul inside. It was a beautiful memorial, and thank you for sharing your son’s memory with all of us.
Nancy Drews (Carisa's mom)
June 23, 2008
Joe, Liz and Alden,
Please accept our sincere sympathy for your great loss. The memorial service was very touching and indeed a celebration of Joe's life. We have never been to a service like this before. Joe has touched our familys life. Kyle has always looked up to Joe and Alden for their great flips. We know Joe is dancing around in heaven and showing off his awesome moves. God bless you all and may God give you strength.
Susan Martinez
June 23, 2008
Dear Sodd Family,
I am so sorry for your loss! Joe's death has impacted our family greatly and he will be sorely missed.
Susan + TJ Martinez (mom and step-dad of Amber Keeley, Jake Erling + Noelle Erling from Out of a Limb Dance.
Cory Johnson
June 23, 2008
Joe, Liz and Alden - The memorial service yesterday was the most moving service I have every been to. I truly felt Boogies upbeat presence everywhere. Aldie"s flip off the stage was so right on! You know that Boogie would have done nothing less for Aldie. Joe will dance in our hearts forever.
Duncan Lasley
June 23, 2008
Yesterday's Celebration was a Joyful expression of Love and Light, honoring a Beautiful Soul who was Nurtured by a Loving Family and Unbroken Circle of Friends with Integrity, Warmth and Humor. Surely and without doubt ... Joe is Smiling Today! Blessings and Light to All.
Jennifer and Wickham Samuel
June 22, 2008
My heart is heavy for your grief. Proceed with peace in mind and spirit.
Don Curle
June 22, 2008
Joe,
We have only known each other for some 3 or 4 years and yet our conversations, although initially were business related, have always included stories about your family.
I knew your Dad was a golfer and Joe III was a dancer. You could tell by the way you spoke about family that you were proud, and rightly so.
I have read newspaper articles and have read your family's and friends expressions here and now realize how special your family is to you.
My thoughts are with you and your family at this time. I look forward to talking again soon, and not just another business conversation.
Don
Stephen Justin
June 22, 2008
Joe, Liz and Alden, This whole scenario is wrong - please know our thoughts are with you during this toubling time. Steve, Mary Ann and kids.
Luci Baker
June 22, 2008
I'm so sorry for you. I remember Joe's awesome laugh and huge smile from OOAL. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Lindsey and Paul Iacovino
June 22, 2008
Dear Joe, Liz and Alden,
At a time like this we are at such a loss for the right words to bring comfort and healing. We are keeping all of you in our prayers, with the hope that the love of those around you will help you through the days ahead.
With our deepest sympathy,
Paul and Lindsey
*
Henry Patterson
June 22, 2008
Liz, Joe, and Alden,
Our thoughts and prayers to you. We are thinking of you.
Terry, Betsy, Henry, and Matt
Emily
June 22, 2008
For the legacy left, the lessons taught, the generosity and love received, we are so very grateful. Along with sadness comes a sense of Joe's incredible presence, reminding us that there's a new angel on the move.
Carol Peterson
June 22, 2008
Joe and family, You are in my thoughts and prayers at this time. What a terrible loss for all of you.
Tim Mangen
June 22, 2008
Joe, I`m sorry to hear of your loss.
I cannot even imagine losing a child,nor do I want too. You and your loved one`s are in my thought`s and prayer`s.
sandi stein
June 22, 2008
Joe, Liz, and Alden:
Word can not express the sadness we feel . You are in our hearts and thoughts.
Sandi and Geno Stein
Laura Leonard
June 22, 2008
Liz you can thank Joe for the countless hours you spent in the Marcy costume room. He was a shining star from the first musical he was in. Even when he did not have a lead role Joe would manage to capture the audience with his wild abandon. This is something Joe passed down to Alden to continue in future shows. The Sodd boys had a special way of entertaining especially during closing night curtain calls. Joe let your starlight shine down on your family and comfort them. Laura and Walker
Mike Wigley
June 22, 2008
Joe, Liz & Alden--
Words cannot express the sorrow and sympathy that Barb & I feel for you. Having experienced the tragic death of a sibling when she was 23, we know the pain and grief that you are enduring. Know that you are in our prayers and the prayers of many others as you struggle through these extremely difficult times.
Lucy Robideau and Rich Herrmann
June 22, 2008
Joe
I remember you telling me about the climbing rope you hung in the living room of your house for your boys.
You should not be going through this. Our children are not suppose to go before us. We just want to tell you how sorry we are. You are in our thoughts. We hope that you find peace and comfort.
Mel Wrolstad
June 22, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
maddy ed
June 22, 2008
Dear Joe Sodd III
Your legend lives. I'm sorry. You will be missed and remembered always.
John "John-Boy"
June 21, 2008
No words, only memories. Joe is always with me now.
Jim Wern
June 21, 2008
Our Deepest Sympathy.
The Family of:
James (Dick) and Isabelle Wern
Sharee Marcus
June 21, 2008
Perhaps they are not the stars, but rather openings in Heaven where love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy.
Meghan Raser-Shepard
June 21, 2008
My thoughts are with his family. Joe was such a wonderful addition to Cornish. I have fond memories of him and his wonderful personality. Joe, I will miss you.
Chuck E Cheese's for bday party. Aug 2007
June 21, 2008
Joe and friends after an OOAL dance performance - Aug 2007
June 21, 2008
Enjoyin a cupcake at Chuck E Cheese's for a bday party. Prized tickets close by! Aug 2007
June 21, 2008
Marcy Open School
June 21, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with Joe's parents, family, and friends. Joe made an impact on the staff and students at Marcy Open School. He was in the Marcy Musicals and brought an energy to Marcy that will be felt forever. We are so sorry that he is gone.
Debbie Wolking
June 21, 2008
I love you Joe. You brought joy into my life that will never leave me. Love Deb
Matt & Peggy Woodling
June 21, 2008
Please accept our condolences for the loss of your sweet Joe. Our prayers are with you and him.
Marjani
June 21, 2008
I'm so sorry Joe. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Rene' Diaz
June 21, 2008
Joe, Liz & Alden,
After all these years, Gene & I will never forget the time that we were
at Jim & Robert's house and you had
taken little "Booshi" for a bike ride. He must have been about 2-3 years old. When you unzipped the Burley cart and he stepped out, it was like "Here I am everyone". I remember all of us commenting this at the time and thinking about how
he was so confident and had
presence about him that was unforgettable.
We are so very sorry and can't even begin to imagine what you are going through. You will always be in our thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Gene & Rene' Diaz
Joe Sodd III
June 21, 2008
Jaime Thompson
June 21, 2008
We love you Boujie. XO Jaime & Damian
Bob & Theresa Alberti
June 21, 2008
We are so very sorry for your loss. If there is anything we can do for you please let us know.
elora la valle
June 21, 2008
well, i didn't really know joe that well. he taught at my dance studio and was in a few productions.
when i think of him i definitely think of his bright orange moped, and how one day a couple years ago he told me, "cheesecake is the food of the GODS!"
i'm gonna miss seeing him around. my prayers are with joe's friends and family.
Jordan, Carrie and Sefirah Stein
June 21, 2008
We love you
Joanne Toft
June 21, 2008
Our thoughts are with you in these days. I want you to know how many teachers have talked to me about Joe, their memories and wonderful thoughts. He touched the lives of many.
Gary, Diane, & family Landin
June 21, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Lisa Condie Cowan
June 21, 2008
My sons knew Joe and are so very sad by his sudden passing. My son Jordan said that he can hear his laugh in his head and cannot believe he is gone. My heart goes out to you during this time and find strength in the wonderful memories you have of Joe.
Julie and Duane Swedberg
June 21, 2008
We are so very sorry for your loss.
God Bless you and keep you in His care.
Julie Swedberg
June 21, 2008
I am truly, truly sorry for your loss. I know there are no words to say. I lost my son three years ago. All I know is the pain is something no one can understand unless they have been there. God Bless You and Your Family.
Steve Bernu
June 21, 2008
Joe Jr. My heart goes out to you and your family. Your old neighbor Steve Bernu
Samarra
June 21, 2008
How sad! Gone too soon! Sincere condolences to the family and to everyone who knew and loved Joe. May his memory be eternal!
Mike & Marcia Ostwald
June 21, 2008
Please express our sympathy to Joseph's grandfather, Joe Sodd. We live in Appleton, WI and are so very sorry for Joe, his son and all family and friends that are grieving their loss of a talented, wonderful young man. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. With sympathy and caring.
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