Joseph Edmund Ivelia

Joseph Edmund Ivelia, a lifelong Everett resident and beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on May 30, 2025. Born on November 4, 1958, Joe was truly one of a kind; a man known for his loyalty, honesty, kindness, and genuine nature.

Joe was raised in Everett and attended Immaculate Conception before graduating from Everett High School in 1977. He later continued his education at Everett Community College, where he began cultivating the many passions and friendships that would define his life.

A proud supporter of Everett High School and the Blue and Gold Club, Joe remained rooted in his community throughout his life. He retired happily from the Mukilteo School District, where he worked as a loyal custodian at Kamiak High School. Being part of the Knight family brought him joy and purpose, he took great pride in his work and the students and staff he supported.

Joe was a longtime member of the Everett Elks Club and, in his early years, an avid bowler at Evergreen Bowling Alley. Over time, the bowling alley became one of his regular stops, a familiar and comfortable place where he formed deep-rooted connections and meaningful friendships. His quiet competitive spirit and quick wit made him a favorite at the dart board - where he competed at the state level. He also had a passion for golf as well as running and completed multiple marathons.

A devoted sports fan, Joe rarely missed a Seahawks, Mariners, or Kraken game. He also loved his visits to Las Vegas and had a keen eye for a good bet. While his hobbies brought him joy, Joe was a man of tradition who found comfort in routine and the company of family. In later years, Joe placed even greater value on family connections and made a quiet commitment to be more present. He began attending his great-nieces’ and nephews’ sporting events with pride, recognizing the importance of showing up and strengthening those bonds across generations.

Joe had a quiet strength and unwavering dedication to his loved ones, especially his mother, Frances Ivelia, whom he helped care for with devotion. He is also survived by his sister Tammi Gleason (Terry*); brothers Rick Ivelia (Debbie); and Vince Ivelia (Leslie); six nephews and a niece; and eight great-nephews/nieces. He was preceded in death by his father Richard A. Ivelia and brother-in-law Terry Gleason. His presence will be profoundly missed, but his legacy will continue to live on through the family traditions he cherished and the countless lives he touched.

Joe wasn’t one for change or spontaneity, but he embraced life with a steadfast, simple grace that made those around him feel grounded and appreciated. True to himself in every way, he lived quietly and intentionally - valuing connection, consistency, and the people he loved. Joe passed away of natural causes, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and memories that will continue to echo in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

A service to honor Joe’s life will be held on Monday, June 23rd at 11:45 a.m. with a viewing, followed by a 1:00 p.m. service and 2:00 p.m. burial at Evergreen Funeral Home and Cemetery. A dessert reception will follow on site, where friends and family are invited to share stories, laughter, and memories in celebration of a life well lived.