I met Joel in the mid-80's in Halifax while he was touring with Eye-Eye. We had a fantastic  connection which lasted until a few years after I moved to Ontario. I've thought about him many times over the years and was saddened to learn of his passing. He was focused, quirky, loyal, and so much more. My condolences to all who were a part of his life.  I cherish my memories of him.

I met Joel in the mid-80's in Halifax and struck up a friendship which lasted many years. I don't know what compelled me to google his name tonight and am saddened that he returned to the cosmos at such an early age. I still have his letters and fondly remember our friendship. My condolences to everyone who he left behind. 

I met Joel and became friends with him in Burlington in 1978. We played in three bands together between 1979 and 1984. Although we had not spoken in many years, I always remember enjoying Joel's humour and wit. I also thought he was a fine piano player too.

Fiercely independent; passionate; obstinate; deeply caring; funny as hell.  These are just some of the descriptions I've heard in the past week from people who knew and loved my brother, Joel.  The last time I spoke with him, he was determined to fight what he'd been told was leukemia, never realizing that an extremely aggressive lymphoma had other plans.  Going through his phone, I've found photo after photo of people he cared about and groups of people celebrating life with him.  Seeing how much he was loved and how much he loved others makes the pain bearable.  Thanks to all of you for being Joel's friend and letting him be yours.

I had the pleasure and privilege of playing with Hank Slammer with The DelRayos and Tex Chainsaw & The Massacre, as well as being a friend. I miss him already, and the world has lost a talent, and a wit. RIP, Hank Slammer.

I'm going to miss Joel at the Piston Broke.  We talk over pints about politics, labour rights, and municipal events and projects.  I'm also going to miss hearing about the work he did on the various movies and TV shows he's worked on.  Here's to you Joel - a friend lost too soon.  Solidarity forever Brother!

Our thoughts go out to the McLeod family and all those who will miss Joel. Originals Bar was where Joel would mix the band, chat us up and talk about everything and anything, keeping us appraised of his life, the piano, and the joys of a Creemore.
Even after relocating to Brantford he would make the trek back to Bayview Ave just to say hi and tweak the board when no one was looking. :)   It will be easy to remember with joy his easy smile and genuine love of music and the industry.

My prayers for the McLeod family at this difficult time. Joel and I were classmates in high school and somewhat of my "big brother" at times.  He was such a gentle, caring, always there for his friends type of guy. I was so glad to have seen him at one of our last class reunions and listen to his music, such a talented musician.  He will always be in my thoughts and memories when I think of the fond times in the Valley.

This is unbelievably sad news.  Joel was one of my favourite "regulars" when I tended bar for many years at The Granite Brewery in Toronto.  He loved to have a pint (or two) of Peculier and talk hockey, politics and of course music.  I was just listening to some of his tunes the other day.... Will definitely miss the big guy.

Everyday in high school homeroom the teacher would say, "McCann? McLeod?".  Both us Macs would answer, "Here" at the top of our lungs. Joel's laugh was contagious and got me in trouble all the time.  It's too soon, old friend, too soon. Rest now.  I know there is music in Heaven.  Love, Kathy McCann Evans

Joel was an extraordinary musician and a very great friend.  His friendship was a treasure, and now, so too is his memory.  While he is no longer with us, we can be thankful for the time we had with him and that we even knew him.

Joel and have been best friends for 45 years. Through high school, college and beyond, we created a lot of havoc. Too many memories to share. Joel will be greatly missed by me and his many friends in Pennsylvania. I promise ever time the old gang gets together, a glass will be raised in honor of Swampy. Play that piano son.

I was one Joel's best friends since high school. Through the crazy high school years and even crazier college years, we did lots of crazy things and built up tons of memories. I and his many friends left behind in the states will miss him greatly. I promise whenever the old gang gets together a glass will be raised in salute to Swampy.

OBITUARY

Joel Dennis McLeod

October 9, 1952 – October 8, 2013

Thorpe Brothers Funeral Home & Chapel

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