Joel Guillermo

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Joel Lucero Guillermo, age 46, passed away unexpectedly from a heart failure on December 6th, 2022.  Joel was born on November 11, 1976 as the youngest of six children to Irenea Lucero Francisco and Norberto Guillermo in Manila, Philippines.

Joel was a perfect fiancé, son, brother, cousin, future stepdad, and friend.  Joel had an associate degree in Drafting and Design from Manila, Philippines and he knew how to create beauty with style.  He spent the last 23+ years of his life as a dedicated and standout employee in various positions at UW Health where the impact he made on his coworkers was rivaled by none.

Joel’s soft spoken and kind spirit set him apart as an employee and coworker. It was not an option to have a difficult day with Joel in the office as he always found a way to lighten the mood or make you laugh out loud when you most needed it.  Joel was incredibly loved by all he encountered. Joel appreciated the simplest things and considered them as luxury.  He was passionate, extremely competitive, and adored by the Madison Volleyball family.  He was a homemaker and an impeccable cook who viewed eating as a hobby.  Joel dreamed of owning and operating a food cart.  He was an amazing dog dad to Oliver and Buster, and was honorable in every way. Joel had style and class, always looking as sharp as a razor. His always positive attitude and smile was infectious.  He was generous, kind, sweet, fun loving and an all-around beautiful person, inside and out.

Joel often said to Brian that “Our dogs are here to teach us how to love.” Joel was here for the same reason. The future was so bright. In the coming year, Joel was looking forward to planning a wedding with his fiancé, Brian. While it cannot be and a large part of Brian's life will go unfulfilled, he will be forever grateful for the time he had with Joel, holding him close in his heart eternally. It has been said that it is better to have loved and lost than to have never loved at all.

Joel was loved by his friends and family in the States and in the Philippines.  His family in the Philippines was near and dear to his heart. He spoke of them highly and often, cared for them unconditionally, and provided for them whenever possible. Joel was loved by Brian’s family and they are hurting from the loss. It was obvious how family and friends loved him and he will be sadly missed by all.  .

Joel is survived by his father Norberto Guillermo, sisters Jocelyn (Trony) Tangca, Jenina (Mario) Macedonio, Jacqueline (Pat) Francisco, brother Norberto “Jonjon” (Ava) Guillermo, step mother Estinely Dela Cruz Guillermo, half-sister Elena (David) Guillermo Golden, half-sister Lisa (Tanvir) Sharif, cousin Marlon (Kirsten) Dela Cruz, nephew Ayan and many nieces and nephews in the Philippines.

Joel is survived by his fiance’ Brian Schuster and future stepchildren Lindsey, Taylor, and Charlie Schuster.  His future fathers and mothers-in law; Joe and Karen Amenson and Gary and Pat Schuster.  Future sisters and brothers in law, Kelly Schuster, Jodi (Mike) Hetzel, Cindy Schuster, and Jennifer Schuster.  Future nieces and nephews Jessica (Troy) Meyer and their children Mason and Madeline. Andrew (Megan) Wickman and their children Lucas, Owen, and Kylie. Chelsea (Jason) Renne, Kaylie Hetzel, Chloe Hetzel, and Riley Vanden Heuvel.

Joel was preceded in death by his mother Irenea, oldest brother Joseph Guillermo and beloved dog Ayan.

Brian and Joel’s family wishes to express gratitude and love for all of those who have sent condolences and support through this heartbreaking time.

A visitation will be held at Cress Funeral Service, 3610 Speedway Road Madison, WI on Sunday December 18th from 2PM-4PM.  The family will have a private visitation from 1PM-2 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to his family in the Philippines.