On September 17, 2024, the world lost a shining light when Joey Loftsgard Obituary passed away in Hiawatha, Iowa, at the age of 43. Joey’s untimely departure left a void in his community, but his life a tapestry woven with love, service, and joy continues to inspire all who knew him.
Early Life and Education
Born on November 16, 1980, in Postville, Iowa, Joey was the cherished son of Roger and Joni (Butikofer) Loftsgard. His formative years in Clermont were marked by curiosity, close family bonds, and the values instilled by his parents. He later joined the Valley High School class of 1999, following a familial tradition of graduates from the same school a testament to his deep roots in the community.
After high school, Joey pursued higher education at the University of Northern Iowa, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing or a related field in 2004 . His time at UNI shaped his future path not only professionally, but also in the relationships he formed, including the one with Crystal Sokol Gray.
Professional Journey
Joey’s professional life was built on passion, leadership, and a commitment to excellence. In 2019, he was noted as a Market Development Manager for LP Building Products. His aptitude for connection and strategy was further reflected when he embraced the role of Market Development Manager, helping companies whether in building materials or other sectors grow and thrive.
Colleagues admired Joey’s dedication and authenticity. He was not merely a professional; he was a mentor, a collaborator, and a friend. Though not every resume detail is public, his impact on clients and teams was unmistakable. Joey’s leadership style combined a strategic vision with a grounded approach that made everyone feel seen and valued.
Love, Family, and Community
On November 16, 2019, Joey married his partner and best friend, Crystal Sokol Gray, at Cedar Ridge Winery in Swisher, Iowa. This union celebrated not just romantic love, but a profound partnership rooted in shared values, mutual respect, and unwavering support.
Parker and Camdyn Gray, Joey’s beloved stepchildren, occupied the center of his world. He never hesitated to drop everything for their games, performances, or simple moments together instilling in them confidence, determination, and the belief that they could accomplish anything.
Those who knew Joey well speak of his “never met a stranger” attitude. Whether in the neighborhoods around Hiawatha or cheering at a sports event, he carried warmth that naturally drew people to him. His role as a supportive role model extended from office teams to high-school locker rooms, and even to social events in his local church and community organizations.
Passions and Hobbies
A true sports enthusiast, Joey proudly supported the Iowa Hawkeyes, Chicago Cubs, and Green Bay Packers. Whether watching a big game or debating legendary plays, his spirit was contagious, drawing others into the thrill of the moment.
Joey had a special bond with Kona, the family doodle, who accompanied him on long walks that were as much for social connection as they were for fitness. He also loved travel exploring new locales, tasting fresh cuisines, and experiencing the richness of different cultures. Yet no matter how far his travels took him, his heart and suitcase always came back in time for his children’s events.
Family Roots and Legacy
Joey’s legacy is deeply embedded in a loving, interconnected family. He is survived by:
- His devoted wife, Crystal Gray
- Stepchildren Parker and Camdyn Gray
- Parents Roger and Joni Loftsgard of Clermont
- Brother Jeremy “Frog” Loftsgard, also of Clermont
- In‑laws: Brian and Cassie Sokol; Beca Sokol; Dave and Polly Sokol; nephews Keidyn and Austin; grandmother Norma Butikofer
- A wide circle of cherished aunts, uncles, cousins, and close friends
He was preceded in death by his grandparents Raymond and Lois Loftsgard, maternal grandfather William Butikofer, his uncle Michael Butikofer, and his beloved prior dog, Nicky.
Celebrating Joey’s Life Viewing and Memorial
Friends and family gathered to honor Joey’s life during a visitation held on September 23, 2024, at The Legacy Center at Murdoch‑Linwood Funeral Home in Cedar Rapids. The following day, his memorial service carried the same warmth and outreach that had lived by, drawing a full house to celebrate his life on September 24, 2024 .
A Life That Continues to Inspire
While grief is raw and loss is painful, Joey’s life is a beacon for resilience, love, and community connection. Here are enduring lessons from his journey:
- Active Love
Joey didn’t just say he loved he demonstrated it. He was present at games, dinner tables, neighborhood sideline chats, professional meetings, and spontaneous weekend travels. His love and attention were constant. - Community as Family
He extended kinship to everyone from long-time neighbors in Iowa to new colleagues in the business world. Joey believed each person mattered. - Balanced Living
Between family time, professional growth, hobbies, faith, and fitness, Joey lived full and intentional days. His life reminds us: passion and purpose flourish when balance is honored. - Living Authentically
With ease, laughter, empathy, and humility, Joey brought out the best in everyone around him. His authenticity drew hearts and minds to him.
How to Honor Joey’s Memory
To carry forward his ethos of generosity and love, memorial contributions are encouraged to Foundation II, an organization aligned with community growth and support. Families and friends also are invited to share memories on the funeral home’s website under Joey’s obituary stories that breathe life into his legacy.
Final Thoughts
Joey Loftsgard Obituary departed too soon, but he lived large impacting family, shaping communities, inspiring peers, and guiding a generation. His life reminds us:
- Love deeply for family, friends, causes. Let it be active.
- Be present in moments big or small.
- Reach beyond immediate circles to connect.
- Balance ambition with serenity.
- Be unapologetically you.
In remembering Joey, we honor a man who modeled these truths with every step. He transformed ordinary moments into extraordinary memories. Though his presence is gone, the warmth, laughter, and love he shared remain.
