Joel attended Jefferson Davis High School. He was a loving husband to his wife Gloria of 39 years and a wonderful father to his two children, Marissa and Michael. He loved listening to music and sharing it with others. He was very kind, compassionate and always willing to help others. Joel never met a stranger and loved sharing stories and experiences. He had an incredible sense of humor, even when he was the subject. He will be missed dearly by all who loved him and knew him as a friend.
Joel was preceded in death by his parents, David and Mary Duran. He was also preceded in death by his father and mother-in-law, Emilio and Agustina Vazquez and brothers-in-law, Jorge Vasquez (Olga) and Tim Martinez.
He is survived by his wife Gloria Duran; children Marissa Michelle and Michael Anthony; siblings Ruth Buyers (Richard), Laura Blankenship (Kerry) and his beloved dog, Chuy; his extended family, sisters-in-law Ignacia Martinez, Bertha Gerardo (George), Martha Aguilar (David); brothers-in-law Manuel Vazquez (Carmen), Emilio Vasquez Jr. (Caroline), Arturo Vasquez, Cesar Vasquez, Ruben Vasquez (Barbara), Roger Vasquez (Nancy); numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins; Alice “Alsu” Guinova considered him her American dad; along with closest and dearest friends Gloria and Juan Herrera and Leticia Hinojosa.
A visitation for Joel will be held Tuesday, March 15, 2022 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with a rosary at 6:30 p.m. The funeral service will be Wednesday, March 16, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. and a committal service to follow. All services will be held at Forest Park East Funeral Home and Cemetery, located at 21620 Gulf Freeway in Webster, Texas.