It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joel F. Grenke, Christian, devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather, great grandfather, and loyal friend.
Joel’s journey on this earth began on April 9, 1957, in Au Gres, Michigan, and his work here was completed on August 16, 2023, in Winter Haven, Florida after a brief battle with Leukemia at 66 years old. Joel has called Frostproof, Florida home for the last 45 years. He was a Tow Truck driver, Semi-truck driver and Diesel Mechanic for most of his life. If you knew him, you knew he could fix anything. He was an Elder of Southside Baptist Church. He served on the Men’s Ministry Team, Mission team to Nicaragua, and Children’s Ministries over the years. He was honored to be a member of the Federation of Christian Sportsmen and enjoyed serving others alongside his brothers in Christ.
The most prestigious job that Joel ever held was being a father and husband, which he always made sure was a priority. Joel was married to Jenny Idell Collins on June 2, 1981, in Bartow. They built a wonderful life together for 42 years. Joel cherished the love of his life, Jenny, and honored her every day of his life. Joel and Jenny began their life together raising their daughter Jennifer in Lake Wales. On August 20, 1983, they welcomed their son Donald Justin Grenke. The unconditional love and devotion he showed his wife was the greatest gift that he gave his children. His daughter, Jennifer, and son, Donnie, were his pride and joy, and his presence in their lives was a source of consistent unwavering support, guidance, and inspiration.
Joel’s legacy is one of warmth, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Joel never let anyone down and everyone knew his word was his bond. Joel always wore a beautiful hearty smilewith dimples and never met a stranger. He has been described as kind and a wonderful man by so many people who knew him. His endless jokes and laughter were a constant staple in his home and life. He was an avid fisherman who shared his passion with his wife, children, and grandchildren.
Joel and Jenny shared their passion of travel with their children and grandchildren over the years. It would not be uncommon for them to have 7 grands loaded up in a van heading out for a new summer adventure. Joel and Jenny loved to travel and experience all the beautiful places this country had to offer spending much of their time in the Pisgah Mountains of North Carolina. Their grandchildren and great grandchildren have been a source of endless happiness for him over the years. He was active and present in their lives, the coolest grandfather in the school drop off and pick up line, and always ready to have fun.
He is survived by his wife of 42 years, best friend, and fishing partner, Jenny Idell (Collins) Grenke, daughter Jennifer Elaine Grenke and fiancé Brodie Stephenson of Indiantown; son, Donald Justin Grenke and wife Misty Grenke of Frostproof. He had the pure joy of being the Papaw to his grandchildren and great grandchildren: Brett grandson and great granddaughter Julieta; Julisa granddaughter and husband Austin great grandchildren :Alana, Justin, Lincoln, Baby Boy on the way; Cheyenna granddaughter and husband Brandon; Jessenia granddaughter great grandchildren Eli, Jaxon, Clayton grandson, Jasmine granddaughter, Hunter grandson and fiancé Lexy great grandchildren Oaklee, Marley, Rusty, Sunny, Madden grandson, Bronson grandson, Princess Jayla granddaughter. He is additionally survived by brother John Grenke and wife Phyllis, sister Mary Jane White and husband Keith White; sister Karla Grenke; sisters and brother in laws Troy and Debbie Cunningham, David and Darlene Cloud, and Michael and Linda Collins, many nieces, nephews, great nieces, cousin, his children’s best friends and friends who have become family. He is preceded in eternal rest by his parents: Donald K. Grenke, Sr. Father, Bonus Mother Norma Sue Grenke, Mother Mary Francis Paquette, siblings Eugene Grenke, Brenda Salas, and extended siblings Kenny, Rex, and beloved Jerri Marie.
Joel’s memory will forever remain alive in the hearts of those who knew him. His laughter, his stories, and his genuine kindness touched the lives of many. As we gather to celebrate his life, let us remember the joy he brought to us all and find comfort in the legacy of the love he leaves behind.
Visitation will be held from 3:00pm to 4:00pm to be followed by funeral services starting at 4:00pm on Saturday, August 19, 2023, at First Baptist Church of Frostproof. Rev. Michael J. Arms and Brother Tim Hood officiating. Interment will follow at Silver Hill Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com
The Grenke children are requesting to honor their father Joel, by honoring their mother, Jenny. They are asking In Lieu of flowers please bring a card filled with a memory of Joel and if you desire, a monetary or gift card donation to help ease the future for Jenny.
