Joel Kandel

Joel Kandel, age 82, of Plantation FL, passed away on January 12, 2026 after a long illness.

He was born in New York City to the late Milton & Pearl (Rubins) Kandel and grew up in Brooklyn, NY. Joel worked in public safety communications for several decades. He was proud of being an active amateur radio operator (KI4T) for over 65 years. Was very active in disaster communications and was instrumental in establishing the amateur radio station at the National Hurricane Center. Joel won several awards for his disaster communications work. He worked several hurricanes including Andrew and Gilbert in Jamaica.

Joel was a dedicated and devoted husband to Paulette (Penchuck) Kandel. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughters Elyse (Junior) Tyrell and Rebecca Kandel, his granddaughters Taylor and Haley Tyrell, Naomi and Leah Scott, his brother Avi (Ellen) Kandel and many nieces and nephews and grand nieces and nephews. Joel will be missed by his family and friends for his quick wit, keen sense of humor and seemingly unlimited knowledge.

Services at the Levine Chapels, 470 Harvard St., Brookline on Thursday, January 15 at 11:00am followed by burial at the Chevra Tillum of Boston Cemetery, 232 Fuller St., Everett.

Shiva following the burial through 7pm at the home of Saul & Bella Schapiro and will continue in FL, later in the week.

Donations may be made to the Plantation Historical Society, 511 North Fig Tree Lane, Plantation, FL 33317.