In every community, there are people who shine not because they seek the spotlight, but because they bring light into others’ lives. Joey Lee Loftsgard, a beloved husband, father, son, and friend, was one such soul. On September 17, 2024, Joey passed away peacefully at his home in Hiawatha, Iowa, leaving behind a legacy of love, generosity, and unwavering kindness.
Though his life was far too short, his impact was deep, and his memory will continue to inspire those who knew and loved him.
🧒 Early Life and Roots in Iowa
Joey was born on November 16, 1980, in Postville, Iowa, to his loving parents Roger and Joni Loftsgard. He was raised in the small, close-knit town of Clermont, where he cultivated deep family values, a love for the outdoors, and a respect for community.
From a young age, Joey was known for his friendly spirit and infectious laughter. He attended local schools in the area and graduated from Valley Community School District in 1999. After high school, he went on to earn a degree from the University of Northern Iowa, where he studied with dedication and formed lifelong friendships.
💍 Marriage and Family Life
One of the happiest milestones in Joey’s life came on November 16, 2019, when he married Crystal Sokol Gray, his true soulmate, partner, and best friend. The two were married at Cedar Ridge Winery, surrounded by loved ones and a backdrop of autumn beauty that mirrored their joyful love.
Joey stepped fully into the role of a loving stepfather to Parker and Camdyn Gray, and together with Crystal, he built a life filled with warmth, laughter, and memorable adventures. Their home was also shared with Kona, their beloved doodle, who was Joey’s loyal companion on long daily walks through the neighborhood.
🧠 Career, Hobbies, and Joyful Living
While Joey was a hardworking professional, it was his approach to life that truly defined him. He was a man who never met a stranger, always willing to lend a helping hand, offer kind words, or brighten a room with his humor.
He was a passionate sports fan, cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes, Green Bay Packers, and Chicago Cubs with unmatched excitement. Friends recall that you could always count on Joey for great conversation, a game-day invite, or a perfectly timed joke.
Joey also had a great appreciation for nature, music, and travel. Whether it was a family trip, a spontaneous road adventure, or simply a quiet evening at home grilling with loved ones, he lived for moments that brought people together.
🏡 A Pillar of His Community
Joey’s true strength lay in how he showed up for others. He was active in local community efforts and was especially passionate about mental health awareness. In place of flowers, his family asked for donations to Foundation 2, a nonprofit crisis center — a cause close to Joey’s heart.
He often volunteered his time, supported charitable causes quietly, and uplifted others with his simple acts of kindness. Whether mentoring someone through a tough time or welcoming new neighbors, Joey’s generosity was genuine and consistent.
👨👩👧👦 Survived By
Joey leaves behind a family who loved him deeply:
- His wife, Crystal Loftsgard
- His stepchildren, Parker and Camdyn Gray
- His parents, Roger and Joni Loftsgard
- His brother, Jeremy “Frog” Loftsgard
- Many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, an uncle (Michael Butikofer), and his much-loved dog, Nicky, who now surely walks beside him again.
🕯️ Memorial Services and Celebration of Life
A visitation was held on September 23, 2024, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Murdoch-Linwood Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The memorial service took place the following morning, on September 24 at 10:30 a.m., in the same location.
Friends, family, coworkers, and community members came together to celebrate Joey’s life, share stories, and offer support to one another — a fitting tribute to someone who had supported so many in their times of need.
💬 Tributes and Legacy
Across social media, Joey’s obituary pages, and in his hometown, countless tributes have poured in:
“Joey was the kind of person you wanted in your life — not for what he had, but for who he was.”
— A family friend
“He was my best man, my shoulder during hard times, and my go-to for good advice and bad dad jokes.”
— A longtime friend
“Our hearts are broken, but we are so grateful we got to love and be loved by him.”
— Crystal Loftsgard
Joey’s legacy is not in the job titles he held, but in the kindness he showed, the connections he nurtured, and the memories he created.
📘 Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Who was Joey Loftsgard?
Joey Loftsgard was a family man, community volunteer, sports fan, and kind-hearted individual known for his warm smile and giving nature.
Q2: When and where did Joey pass away?
Joey passed away on September 17, 2024, in Hiawatha, Iowa.
Q3: What were some of his interests?
Joey loved sports, walking his dog Kona, spending time with family, and supporting mental health causes.
Q4: Where were the services held?
His visitation and memorial service were held at Murdoch-Linwood Funeral Home in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
Q5: How can people honor Joey’s memory?
The family encourages donations to Foundation 2 in Joey’s name to support mental health and crisis services.
🌟 Final Thoughts
It is said that the way we live is how we will be remembered. Joey Loftsgard lived with heart, humor, humility, and hope. His life may not have been long, but it was full, meaningful, and overflowing with love. To those who knew him, Joey was more than just a name in an obituary. He was a light in dark places, a friend in hard times, and a reminder that goodness still exists in this world. He will be missed — but never forgotten.