Joel Rossell

January 3, 1949 – August 29, 2022

Joel Rossell, veteran of the Vietnam War and longtime resident of Moses Lake, passed away at home on Aug. 29, 2022, surrounded by family.

Joel was born in Bremerton, Washington on Jan. 3, 1949, to Gerald and Irma Rossell. He spent his school years growing up in Flint, Michigan with his parents and siblings. This is where Joel’s passion for American-made muscle cars all began. His father was a vehicle transport semi driver and Joel ended up finding a job at Buick. His passion for cars was undeniable and stretched throughout his entire life.

Joel was drafted by the United States Army, 101st Airborne, to Vietnam Jan. 7, 1969. Like many Vietnam veterans, he didn’t speak very much of his time spent in service. Joel was a war hero; he risked his life to save others, and did what he had to as his duty to get back home safely. From being in a helicopter crash and separated from his company for several days, to being shot in the helmet without injury, and risking his life for an emergency evacuation in the middle of the night by holding a spotlight. These were only a few moments captured out loud.

Joel was recognized by the United States Army with the Bronze Star Medal, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign medal w/60 dv, Combat Infantryman Badge award, Marksman badge (M14), Expert badge (M16), and Second class gunner (M60).

Returning home to make his adult life in Moses Lake where his parents had moved to, Joel made a living working at what is now JR Simplot for 42 years. He met numerous people living in Moses lake and working at Simplot for all those years making several friends including his soulmate and wife Vicki (Solberg) Rossell. Joel and Vicki were married in February of 1981 on the most appropriate day of all, Valentine’s Day. His passion may have been cars but that came second after having children. You couldn’t find a more proud parent, grandparent and husband.

Joel is preceded in death by his parents Gerald and Irma Rossell, sisters Betty Johnson and Jan (Mel) Benivedez and brother Jerry Rossell. He is survived by his wife Vicki Rossell; sister Rebecca (Joe) Lizama; brother Jon (Marie) Rossell; sons Eric Rossell, Josh Rossell and Brett Rossell; daughter Lindsey Rossell; five grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. His family will forever remember his peace signs, smiles and humorous personality.

Upon the request of Joel there will be no funeral.