Joseph Gregory Duffel (Joey) passed away peacefully on Monday, April 15, 2019. Joey was born on April 17, 1993 in Cottonwood, Arizona. He attended Air Libre Elementary School where he made life-long friends. As a child, Joey was a stranger to no one. He was quick witted and could light up the room with his mischief and laughter. Of course this was not always appreciated by some of his teachers but then there was Ms. Patruno and Ms. Jung who saw beyond the antics, and embraced Joey’s heart. These women would remain instrumental in Joey’s life. He later graduated from Polaris High School. Joey is preceded in death by his loving grandparents, Vernon and Anne Duffel, and Wayne and Linda Addington. Joey is survived by his father, Joseph Duffel; his mother, Carrie Duffel; his brother, Anthony (Caitlyn) Contessa; his sister, Emily Duffel; great grandmother, Victoria Mestas; grandmother, Nancy Macchione; as well as a host of family and friends. Joey’s big brother, Anthony, sister, Emily, and Parents were at his side till the end, providing comfort and support to the family. Joey loved his family, they were his safe haven, his place of peace. Joey and his sister shared a bonded relationship beyond family, they were best friends. When Emmy was born Joey took on the role of her protector, a role he took very seriously. When the world would become overwhelming they always knew they had one another to go to for comfort and acceptance. Joey will be remembered by his jokes, his laughter, and compassion. Like his family, Joey did not live in judgment of others, but instead loved and accepted people as they were. A visitation will be held on Friday, April 26, 2019 at 10:00 am with funeral service at 11:00 am at Shadow Mountain Mortuary, 2350 East Greenway Road, Phoenix AZ 85022. Interment will follow at Phoenix Memorial Park 200 West Beardsley Road, Phoenix AZ 85027.
