Joel Hans ‘Smoe’ Mabe was born on August 7, 1962 to Hazel and John Mabe in Sacramento California. He moved to Ferndale in 1965 with his mother Hazel and older brother Jim where he attended Ferndale Elementary and High Schools. Joel was active in sports competing in both football and basketball while in high school. His competitive interest continued after high school to include city league basketball and motor cross racing. Recreational activities included jet skiing on the several lakes in the Sacramento area after work. He enjoyed home improvement projects, an endeavor at which was quite adept.

Joel worked on local dairy farms for several years after high school including his uncle Fred Phillis. Joel then moved on to work for the Arcata Redwood Company at the mill site between Arcata and Eureka. Upon returning to Sacramento, Joel was employed by Thomas Brothers Construction eventually working his way to a foreman position supervising three construction crews. Returning to Ferndale once again, Joel pursued agricultural interests at various locations. Joel was always a hard worker consistently performing at 110 percent.

Joel was very gregarious and endeared himself to everyone who met him. A conversation with Joel would usually result in laughter and good memories that would brighten up a person’s day.

Sadly, Joel passed away on Saturday, May 7, 2022. Joel in preceded in death by his father John Mabe and his half-brother John Mabe Jr. He is survived by his mother Hazel Christiansen, Cheri, the mother of his children, his children Taryn and Joel Mabe, his former wife Shannon and their child Kyra Mabe, his significant partner Terry, his grandson Ruben Peredia, his brother Jim Mabe, his half siblings Alan and Debra, his niece Tessa, and numerous cousins. He will be missed by his family and the many others whose lives he undoubtedly enhanced with his humor and good will.

A celebration of life for Joel will be held on Saturday, June 4 at the Ferndale Veterans Hall, 1100 Main Street, in Ferndale, at 1 p.m.

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