Joel D Sorem

The quietly exceptional life of Joel David Sorem of Jacksonville, Oregon, came to a peaceful end on September 24, 2025, at age 89. He was a cherished husband, father, stepfather and was respected by all who knew him, be they family, friends, colleagues or fellow dog walkers. His life was a testament to his kind nature, gentle spirit, and the joy he found in both the simple and grand adventures. He had the highest personal integrity, was non-judgmental and always chose the high road. Even these qualities, however, could not mask his dry sense of humor, keen intelligence, and generosity.

Joel was born on May 18, 1936, in Ventura, California, to Mary and Clifford Sorem. The oldest of four children, he was a natural leader, which was manifested in his high school days at Villanova Preparatory School, where he was elected to Student Council, Student Body President and Valedictorian. Alongside his brother, Nelson, Joel thrived on the football, basketball and track teams. Nurtured by his work ethic, he and Nelson raised market steers and started a landscaping business to fund their shared passion for cars, especially those built for drag racing. Joel’s educational journey continued as he earned a Mechanical Engineering degree and an MBA from Santa Clara University, setting the stage for a successful career. In 1958, instead of being drafted, he chose to enlist in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve and was honorably discharged in 1965.

In the early days of what would come to be known as Silicon Valley, Joel started his long career in high tech. He was an early employee at Fairchild Semiconductor, where he contributed as an engineer during the transformative era for technology. His career trajectory continued upward as he embraced the challenges of the startup world, joining MicroMask as the VP of Marketing and Sales. Joel’s professional endeavors culminated with his retirement from Met One Instruments after a successful relocation to Southern Oregon.

Joel’s personal life was equally full of love and commitment. He was a devoted father to his three children, Bernadette Calhoun, David Sorem, and Juliana Sorem, whom he shared with his first wife, Joyce Sue Ross. Fatherhood for Joel meant selfless commitment to his young children’s well-being and unconditional support, never missing a soccer game, parent-teacher conference or piano recital. Overt affection was not his style, but his actions spoke louder than words. His children always knew they were loved and deeply loved him in return.

He married his beloved wife, Sue, in 1983, and together they built a life rich with shared interests and familial joy. He was a caring stepfather to Sue’s children, Bob McCready and Kim McCready, forming an almost immediate bond. He was always at the ready to fix their cars, help them buy used cars, and show pride in their accomplishments. He was a loving presence in their lives that will last forever.

A man of many talents and hobbies, Joel’s passion for cars led him to several years of arduous work on his two frame-up restorations, a ’53 Chevy five-window pickup and a ’73 Karmann Ghia convertible, which were his pride and joy, especially when driving in local parades. But his favorite was his classic ’63 356 red Porsche Cabriolet, which Joel and Sue took to many Porsche events and shows around the West Coast.

As time passed and Joel got tired of crawling under cars, he took up fine woodworking, finishing several craftsman-style pieces of furniture that he designed and built. Sue and Joel shared a love for travel, gardening, nature walks, and their many pets, but hosting family get-togethers at their “destination vacation” home was their favorite. They also hosted a Britt musician for over 15 years, who became a lifelong friend.

Joel David Sorem lived a full and vibrant life, leaving a legacy of love, honor, and the joy of a life well-lived. As we say goodbye to Joel, we are comforted by the indelible mark he has left on our hearts and all those who knew him. Joel’s journey through life was one of purpose, laughter, and love.

Joel is survived by Susan Fischer Sorem, his loving wife; his three children, Bernadette, David and Juliana; his stepchildren, Bob and Kim; and their spouses, Kevin Calhoun, Lisa Sorem, David Auerbach, Jennifer Louden, and Doug Krutzikowsky. He also leaves his grandchildren, Caitlin Jolicoeur, John Calhoun, Andy Calhoun, Jonathan Sorem, Christopher Sorem, Margaret Sorem, Aidan McCready and his three nieces and two nephews.

A celebration of life is planned for next spring.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Joel’s name to:

Celia’s House, a Hospice Residential Care facility in Medford, Oregon or,

WildCare, a wildlife rescue hospital in San Rafael, CA.