Joseph Elias

Joseph "Joe" Richard Elias was born on August 26, 1951 in Minneapolis, Minnesota to Genevieve June (Claus) Elias and Joseph John Elias. It was Joe's wish to be at home with family during his final days. Surrounded by his loved ones, on Friday, November 19th he fell asleep in death. Preceded in death by his only son, Joey and great-grandson Rory.

Joe is survived by his loving wife Debi of 50 years; two daughters: Lauri and Jessie, grandkids: Hayley, Cain, Amelia, Evey, Eli, Emmylou, and Brandon; great-grandkids: Hazelyn and Remi; siblings: Josie, Mary, David and Jerry, and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Joe loved his family more than anything and dedicated his life to taking care of them. He wanted to be remembered as a man of God, he had love, compassion, generosity, and kindness for all.

Many knew Joe in the community as a fair, kind, gentle, generous man. His heart was always full of joy when he had his family near. His favorite was having all the grandkids over and hearing their laughter and playfulness. He had a fun personality, always singing. His humorous impromptu lyrics will always be remembered by his family. Often heard singing a hilarious new tune made up on the spot.  He loved nature, animals, fishing (especially ice fishing), cars, and racing.

Joe had a passionate interest in cars (building, repairing, restoring, racing) since early childhood. He built his 1st car as a young adolescent. He went on to become a Bosch certified Master technician specializing in Porsche and Audi. He opened his own auto repair business, Elias Import Repair, with the help of his wife and partner Debi. He enjoyed racing his cars and won many trophies just for the fun of it.

He will always be held in the hearts of those who had the honor of knowing him.   An environment of peace, love and kindness brought joy and happiness to Joe.

These are some of the scriptures that Joe took to heart and shared with his family:

Galatians 5: 23, 24: ..."the fruitage of the spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith, mildness, self-control.  Against such things there is no law."

Revelation 21:3,4 .... "The tent of God is with mankind, and he will reside with them, and they will be his peoples. And God himself will be with them.  And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.”

A graveside service with full military honors will be held at 12:45 p.m., Thursday, December 16, 2021 at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.