Joel Frey

Joel Frey, 74, of Dickinson, passed away June 27, 2023 at St. Luke's Home.

In accordance with Joel's wishes, his body will be donated to the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and no services will be held.  

Joel C. Frey was born December 26, 1948 in Pierre, SD, the son of Verna (Wein) and Eugene Frey. He grew up in various South Dakota towns such as Mobridge and Aberdeen. He graduated from Roncalli Catholic High School in Aberdeen, SD. He attended college in Aberdeen for one year before enlisting in the US Navy in 1969. It was during this time that he met Marty Jo Boomgaarden while in x-ray school in the Navy. The two were married at Bethesda Naval Medical Center on May 22, 1970. 
Joel continued his career in the Navy, which moved the family to over 18 locations throughout the country. Joel transferred to the Navy National Guard and later the Air National Guard until he retired in 2008 as Master Sergeant. He graduated with a degree in Business from Augustana in Sioux Falls. Joel and Marty Jo settled in Dickinson where he spent the last 33 years. 

Joel was an avid golfer. He loved watching sports, especially when his children and grandchildren were playing. He had an interest in woodworking and scroll sawing, and often built furniture for his family. Joel was especially proud of his garden and produce. He was a long-standing member of the Elks and Eagles Clubs, as well as the Knights of Columbus. 

Joel is survived by his loving wife, Marty Jo; their children Kimberly (Jay) Wanner of Dickinson and Kristi (David) Samuelson of Jordan, MN; brothers John (Cathy) Frey of Redmond, OR, and Michael Frey of Desmet, SD; sister Mary (Calvin) Davidson of Aberdeen; Grandchildren Ryan Samuelson, Cameron Wanner, Nicole (Cody) Adomat, and Kara Wanner; and Great-grandchild Oakley Adomat. 

Joel was preceded in death by his parents Verna and Eugene; and his brother Mark Frey.  

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.