Joel Genrich

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Joel David Genrich, age 57, of Topeka, Kansas, who departed this world on January 20th, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones.

Born on July 25th, 1967, in Beatrice, Nebraska, to Robert and LeeAnn Genrich, Joel enriched the lives of those around him with his warmth and vibrant spirit. His early passions for building models and his dedication to the tennis team at Beatrice High School showcased a keen creativity and competitive spirit, traits that would continue to define him throughout his life.

Joel furthered his education at Northwest Missouri State University, where fate introduced him to Christina Gibson, the charming girl at the front desk of his dormitory. Through countless evening walks together on campus they fell in love. 

On October 12th, 1991, Joel and Christina exchanged vows at Hope Lutheran Church in Shawnee, Kansas, embarking on a remarkable journey together. They were blessed with two wonderful sons, Myles and Matthew, who became the center of Joel’s world. As a devoted father, he celebrated at swim meets and baseball games, finding immeasurable joy in their joys.

Professionally, Joel served as Senior Vice President Loan Officer at Kaw Valley Bank, a role that reflected his dedication and reliability. He was a member of Faith Lutheran Church and the Rotary Club. Despite his notable achievements, Joel found solace in the simple pleasures of life— he was a home body, and a devoted Nebraska Husker and Chief’s football fan. Joel loved his dogs, trains and models, and learning about family and world history. 

Despite all of these things though, his favorite thing to do was spend time with his family. From Sedona, Arizona to Estes Park, Colorado, weekends spent at the family cabin, Disney World, and everywhere in between, the times he was able to travel with his wife and boys were moments and memories he cherished the most and made his life remarkably rich. 

Joel leaves behind a loving family, including his devoted wife Christina; sons Myles (Abby) Genrich and Matthew Genrich; mother, LeeAnn Genrich; brother Dan (Darcy) Genrich; sister Elizabeth (Chad) Langford; mother-in-law Alice (Larry) Ishmael; father-in-law Dale (Edna) Gibson; sisters-in-law Michelle (Casey) Schroff and Connie (Ryan) Armstrong; along with nine cherished nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his father, Robert V. Genrich and grandparents. 

A visitation to honor Joel's life will be held on Friday, January 24th, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Penwell-Gabel – Midtown Chapel in Topeka. Funeral services will take place on Saturday, January 25th, 2025, at 10:00 AM, at Faith Lutheran Church in Topeka, led by Pastor Jacob Heine, with burial immediately following at Mount Hope Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made in Joel’s name to Faith Lutheran Church, Midwest Transplant, or Stormont Vail Hospital. The family would like to give a special thank you to these organizations for their excellent care, time, love, and support they have given them during this difficult time. The links to donate are below: 

Faith Lutheran Church: https://www.faithlutherantopeka.com/online-giving

Midwest Transplant: https://mwtn.org/make-a-monetary-donation/

Stormont Vail Hospital: https://www.stormontvail.org/stormont-vail-foundation/make-a-gift/