Joel B. Brian Droba

Joel B. Brian Droba obituary, Long Lake, MN

Joel B. Brian Droba

Joel Brian Droba Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Rettinger Funeral Home on May 8, 2024.

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Joel Droba, COL (RET) passed away on May 6, 2024, after battling metastatic colon cancer for several years. Joel was born in Detroit, MI on May 29, 1966, and grew up in Bemidji, MN. He attended Bemidji High-School and graduated from Bemidji State University with a B.A. in Classical Music (percussion), with a minor in Military Science. He was commissioned in ROTC as a 2nd LT in the MN Army National Guard as an Armor Officer (combat operations.) He retired as a Colonel in the US Army Reserve after a highly decorated 33-year career specializing in psychological warfare and operations. He is preceded in death by his mother and father, Mary Ann (Briggs) and Leonard "Bud" Steele, and is survived by his wife, Martha Lundell, daughter, Christina Lundell, and two siblings, Gregory Droba and Aletia Droba, brother-in-law, Mohammed Odeibat, and nephew, Shareif Odeibat.
Private family service at Fort Snelling National Cemetery, followed by a celebration of Joel's life which will be scheduled and shared at a later date.
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May 20, 2024

Kearney Middle East posted to the memorial.

May 20, 2024

Kearney Middle East posted to the memorial.

May 20, 2024

Kearney Middle East posted to the memorial.

Kearney Middle East

May 20, 2024

Kearney Middle East

May 20, 2024

Kearney Middle East

May 20, 2024

Kearney Middle East

May 20, 2024

Kearney Middle East

May 20, 2024

Single Memorial Tree

Kearney Middle East

Planted Trees

Kearney Middle East

May 19, 2024

Kearney Middle East

May 19, 2024

Kearney Middle East

May 19, 2024

Kearney Middle East

May 19, 2024

Kearney Middle East

May 19, 2024

Kearney Middle East

May 19, 2024

Joel was a great member of our team at Kearney Middle East for three important years. He brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to our project, along with his unique sense of humour and an invaluable North American perspective. He also quickly formed a warm connection with our local clients, who treasured the advice of `Dr. Oba´. A hard worker, a team player and a patriot, we miss him.

Aronda Thomas

May 13, 2024

I had the privilege of working alongside Joel on our EMS team. Initially, his military background made me a bit apprehensive about how it would integrate with our diverse team, but Joel quickly became a trusted ally. He seamlessly balanced a tough exterior with a compassionate heart, earning respect and admiration from us all. He was kind, compassionate and had the most concern and care for his team!

When he said he has your back just don't lie to him he meant that with every fiber of his being! He has stated many times he will go to war for us and take on the necessary battles to get us what we need as a team and individuals. He was a man of his word and it was proven with the many changes he was was able to push through not only for our EMS team but for other areas within the CLA communities.

Personally, Joel challenged me to grow, restoring my faith and encouraging me to be my authentic self. His support extended beyond the workplace, advocating for a healthier work-life balance, especially considering my health challenges.I am grateful to have had the opportunity to know and work with Joel!

May he rest peacefully, and his family find comfort in the love of friends and family at this time. Thank you for sharing Joel with us!

Kind regards,
Aronda Thomas

Single Memorial Tree

COL(R) Michael & Donna Barger

Planted Trees

Brett Boudreau

May 10, 2024

I worked with Joel in Abu Dhabi for several months on a project for a large consulting company. As the only North Americans in the group (I´m Canadian) with similar work backgrounds, we spent a lot of time together and had each other´s back providing mutual support with the client and in group settings at work and off duty. Joel was a great battle buddy to have in your corner. A true American patriot who loved his family and served his country with honour.

Joanne Sunquist

May 10, 2024

So sorry to hear about Joel´s passing at such a young age. I worked with Joel for years at HCMC. He was such a disciplined, hard working and passionate guy. May his memory be a blessing!
Joanne Sunquist

Ewan

May 10, 2024

Good guy who has left us far too soon. Ewan

Derek Licina

May 10, 2024

Rest easy brother. We will see you on the high ground. Derek

Rev. Johnny Newell

May 9, 2024

To Ms Martha, may the mercy of the Lord help heal your hurting heart and make you know you are never alone.

Yours in Christ
Rev. Johnny Newell

Gregory Droba

May 9, 2024

Gregory Droba

May 9, 2024

Gregory Droba

May 9, 2024

Gregory Droba

May 9, 2024

Gregory Droba

May 9, 2024

Gregory Droba

May 9, 2024

Karen Steelman

May 9, 2024

Thank you for your service!!!

Prayers for Martha and family.

Joni canida

May 9, 2024

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Susan Schmaltz

May 8, 2024

Dear Martha and Christina,
I want you to know how deeply sorry I am to hear of Joel's passing. Joel was a treasured member of our CLA Abilities virtual belonging community (VBC). The first time I met Joel, it was in my role as a People Solutions (HR) rep for his team. Joel shared with me a small need for a white board to help him keep track/organized. We then bonded over discussion of my daughter's struggles with ADD, and our connections to the military community (my Dad was in the Air Force). Joel joined our VBC and was gracious and thoughtful in contributing to discussions and providing insight. During this past year, Joel shared his hopes and frustrations while battling cancer. He was gracious and giving to our team to the end, and left a lasting mark on all of us in the VBC. You are both in our thoughts and prayers during this time, and we hope that Joel's memory is a blessing to you. Thank you for sharing a part of Joel with us these past years at CLA.
Kind regards,
Susan Schmaltz

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425 Lake Street, Long Lake, MN 55356

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May 20, 2024

Kearney Middle East posted to the memorial.

May 20, 2024

Kearney Middle East posted to the memorial.

May 20, 2024

Kearney Middle East posted to the memorial.