Joel Maxfield Hoines

Joel M. Hoines, a beloved father, husband, and friend, passed away suddenly on March 11th, 2025. Joel was born on January 30th, 1971, in Mount Vernon, Washington, to Dennis and Siegred Hoines. He attended Mount Vernon High School and later enrolled at Bellingham Technical College, where he earned an Associate’s degree in Fisheries and Aquaculture Sciences. He worked as a Hatchery Operations Specialist at BTC, helping students learn about fish hatcheries and taking care of the fish. In 2023, he won BTC’s Employee Enrichment Award for his dedication to his work and students. Joel married Jennifer A. Madden on July 4, 1997, in Jamestown, Louisiana. Their wedding was held in a small family church, where most of the attendees were related to Jennifer. Joel was so overwhelmed in meeting his new family that he mistakenly introduced himself to his own relatives. The day of Joel and Jennifer wedding was the beginning of 27 years of laughter and love. Joel is a veteran of the United States Army. For the majority of his time in service he was stationed with Thirteenth Signal Battalion, First Calvary Division in Fort Hood, Texas from 1997-2001. His division was on rapid deployment and was called to serve during Operation Joint Forge in Bosnia Herzegovina in 1998-1999. As a result of this service, he received an Expeditionary Service Medal and a NATO Article 5 Medal for Operation Eagle Assist. Joel loved fishing, especially kayak fishing with his brother, Josh. Nothing could make a trip out on the water better for Joel, except being the one to catch the most fish. He was a big fan of the Mariners and Seahawks, although he was upset to hear Geno Smith joined the Raiders. Joel always remained calm and brave in even the toughest situations. Once, while driving, he avoided a head-on collision and immediately ran to help the other driver before Jennifer could even react. People often observed that he had a unique way with animals, almost like Dr. Doolittle, and he was constantly learning. He watched geology lectures by Nick Zentner for fun. Most of all, Joel loved his family. He is survived by his wife, Jennifer Hoines; his children, Denin and Samantha Hoines; his brother and sister-in-law, Josh and Stephi Hoines; and 16 nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dennis and Siegred Hoines; his maternal grandparents, Bert Lovette, and Coela Hoines; and his paternal grandparents, Tomas Hoines, and Helen Soderland. Joel’s kindness, humor, and work will always be remembered. He made a huge impact on those around him, and his love and laughter will never be forgotten. Donations can be made in Joel Hoines’s name to the Fisheries and Aquaculture Sciences Program at the Bellingham Technical College. Online gifts can be made at www.btc. edu/donate, or checks can be mailed to: BTC Foundation Fisheries and Aquaculture Sciences RE: Joel Hoines Memorial 3028 Lindbergh Ave, Bellingham, WA 98229. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, May 31st, 2pm at 2600 North Harbor Loop, Bellingham, WA 98225.

Joel Maxfield Hoines

January 30, 1971 - March 11, 2025