Joel Siskovic, 80 years old, born on August 13, 1940 and passed away on August 5, 2021 (one week before his 81st birthday). This is a celebration of Joel's rich and joyful life, full of adventures, a life-long loving marriage, a large family with children who adored him, and friendships and connections with people from all walks of life and all over the world.
Survivors: Joel is survived by: his cherished wife, Carol Malone Siskovic; his 4 children, Joel Elias (Lee) Siskovic II, Holly Ballew, Cara Latt, and Jeannie Salo; his children's spouses: Deb Ireland Siskovic; Brian Ballew, Frank Latt, and Matt Salo; his grandchildren: Frankie and Fara Latt; Shane and Miles Ballew; and Kai, Austin, Luke and Evelyn Salo.
Career: Joel had a prestigious career spanning the military, intelligence community, information technology industry, and education. He was a life-long student with multiple masters degrees and certificates (the list always growing) and knowledge of just about every subject, especially engineering, technology, and history of civilization and migrations. He began his life working multiple odd jobs to finance his first motorcycle (which he built himself), and later worked in a restaurant as a cook and waiter, in a bank, and for Sikorsky helicopter corporation. Joel then had a 20-year military career in the US Air Force, and was a veteran of the Vietnam War. He also worked for the Intelligence Community all over the world. After his retirement, he established his own company, Telebroadcasting Systems, worked for ISN Corporation, and culminated his career at Edgewood ISD as Technology Director.
Hobbies: Joel was also a lifelong musician and proficient drummer (whose band once opened for Buddy Holly and other famous musicians!) and he brought regular joy and fun to his family with impromptu performances on drums, bongos, tambourine, or piano, as well as dances and in-home concerts. He was an avid cook who loved stir-frying in his wok, making Orange Julius for his children, and baking in his bread-maker. Post retirement, Joel was an avid fan of RVs and RV-travel as a way to continue his nomadic nature and extend his adventurous life. Joel was also a master story-teller, comic-strip artist, and joke-teller (many of his jokes were home-made!). In fact, he was a regular mischief-maker with a special sparkle in his eye when his mischief was made. Joel was always an eager conversationalist and friend to all people he encountered, from of all walks of life.
Legacy: Above all, Joel loved his life-long partner, Carol, and was a role-model, teacher, and hero to his children and grand-children. This is his legacy. Joel Elias Siskovic will be remembered, honored, and loved forever.
