With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Joel Mitchell Crain, a beloved son, brother, and friend, who left this world far too soon!

Born on June 21, 1979, Joel was a cherished son to Brian and Debra (Temple) Crain and a devoted brother to Nicole (Scott) Crain-Girten of Greeley, Aaron Crain of Brighton, and Jared (Cheryl) Crain of Louisville. He was known for his kind heart, infectious sense of humor, and adventurous spirit. Joel never met a stranger and quickly made friends with all he'd meet. He could truly talk to anyone about anything! He made all those around him feel comfortable, seen, and heard. His presence lit up every room he entered and brought joy and laughter to his family and friends.

Joel graduated from Greeley West High School and Colorado State University with a degree in Journalism and Public Relations. He worked as a realtor with Black Feather Realty and was a paraprofessional at Heiman Elementary School. He found a family at Heiman and had made plans to pursue a teaching degree. As a kid, Joel was an avid soccer player and BMX racer. His family lovingly called him 'MacGyver' as he could fix anything and loved tinkering!

Joel was an encouraging and fun-loving brother, son and friend. He was always ready with a helping hand, honest advice, and a listening ear. Joel found joy in coaching intramurals, biking, concerts, and hanging out with his nieces and nephews who loved him dearly. He also had an abundance of wonderful and amazing friends who will miss his presence immensely. He will be remembered for his kindness and thoughtfulness. He had a way of making others feel seen and valued. Whether through shared memories, thoughtful words, or simple moments together, he created bonds that will never fade.

Though words can never fully express the depth of this loss, his memory will live on in the stories shared, the laughter remembered, and the love that continues to surround him. He leaves behind a family forever changed by his absence, yet forever grateful for the time they were blessed to have with him. Though his life was cut short, his impact was profound and lasting.

A celebration of life will be held in June around the time of his birthday. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his memory to the school community he loved: https://greeley.revtrak.net/Elementary-Schools/Heiman/Ann-K-Heiman-Elementary-School/#/v/remembrance-of-joel-crain- The children remember him playing football with them and pushing them on the swings so the staff would like to invest in some playground equipment and a buddy bench dedicated in his honor.

Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever in our hearts.