Joey Loftsgard, a beloved husband, father, and friend, left a lasting mark on the Hiawatha, Iowa, community when he passed away on September 17, 2024, at the age of 43. Known for his warm smile, generous heart, and love for family, Joey’s life was filled with moments that touched everyone around him. Born in Postville, Iowa, on November 16, 1980, he grew up in a close-knit town that shaped his values of kindness and community. His obituary is not just a notice of loss but a celebration of a life well-lived, full of love for his family, passion for sports, and dedication to helping others. This article honors Joey’s journey, from his early years to his lasting legacy, offering a heartfelt look at the man who made the world brighter. Let’s remember Joey Loftsgard and the impact he had on those who knew him.
Early Life and Roots in Iowa
Joey Loftsgard was born on November 16, 1980, in Postville, Iowa, to Roger and Joni Loftsgard. Growing up in the small town of Clermont, Joey learned the importance of family and community early on. He attended Valley High School, graduating in 1999, where he shone in academics and built lifelong friendships. His love for sports, especially the Iowa Hawkeyes, Chicago Cubs, and Green Bay Packers, started young and became a big part of his life. Joey’s childhood was filled with adventure, from exploring Iowa’s fields to cheering at games with friends. His parents, Roger and Joni, were his role models, teaching him kindness and hard work. These values shaped Joey into a compassionate person who never met a stranger. His early years in Iowa laid the foundation for a life dedicated to connection and care, leaving memories that his family and friends still cherish.
Family and Love with Crystal
Joey’s greatest joy was his family. On November 16, 2019, he married Crystal Sokol Gray at Cedar Ridge Winery in Swisher, Iowa, a day filled with love and laughter. Their bond, built on mutual respect and humor, was admired by all. Joey embraced Crystal’s children, Parker and Camdyn Gray, as his own, becoming a devoted stepfather. He attended their sports events, cheered them on, and made every moment special. The family’s doodle, Kona, was often by Joey’s side during long walks, a favorite pastime. Joey’s love extended to his parents, Roger and Joni, his brother Jeremy “Frog” Loftsgard, and his extended family, including in-laws and nephews. His home was a place of warmth, where family gatherings were filled with stories and smiles. Joey’s dedication to his family showed in every action, making them the heart of his life and leaving a legacy of love that endures.
Career and Community Impact
Joey was a hardworking professional, serving as a Market Development Manager at LP Building Products. His role involved building relationships with clients, a task he excelled at thanks to his friendly nature and strong work ethic. Colleagues admired his ability to connect with people and his commitment to doing things right. Beyond his job, Joey was a pillar in the Hiawatha community. He supported local causes, including Foundation 2, a crisis prevention organization, and mentored youth through community programs. His kindness shone in small acts, like helping a neighbor or cheering at local games. Joey’s love for the Iowa Hawkeyes and other teams brought the community together, as he bonded with friends over games. His involvement left a lasting impact, with tributes pouring in after his passing, showing how much he meant to those around him. Joey’s work and community spirit made Hiawatha a better place.
Passions and Hobbies
Joey lived life with enthusiasm, finding joy in simple things. A huge sports fan, he cheered passionately for the Iowa Hawkeyes, Chicago Cubs, and Green Bay Packers, often sharing these moments with his kids, Parker and Camdyn. He loved taking long walks with his dog, Kona, enjoying Iowa’s scenic beauty. Joey also had a soft spot for nature, finding peace in quiet moments outdoors. Traveling was another passion—he explored new places with his family, creating memories at family-friendly destinations. Whether it was a road trip or a local adventure, Joey made every outing special. His love for life showed in his humor and ability to make others laugh, even on tough days. Friends remember him as someone who could light up a room with his stories and warmth. Joey’s hobbies weren’t just pastimes; they were ways he connected with others, leaving a trail of happy memories.
Challenges and Resilience
Joey faced life’s challenges with quiet strength. While his obituary doesn’t share the cause of his passing, it’s clear he met difficulties with grace and courage. Living in a busy world, Joey balanced work, family, and community with a calm determination that inspired others. He never complained, even when things got tough, and always put his loved ones first. The loss of his grandparents, Raymond and Lois Loftsgard, his grandfather William Butikofer, his uncle Michael Butikofer, and his dog Nicky brought sadness, but Joey stayed strong for his family. His ability to stay positive, even in hard times, left a mark on those around him. Friends and family recall how Joey’s steady presence gave them hope during their own struggles. His resilience wasn’t loud or showy—it was in his everyday actions, like showing up for others and keeping his word, making him a true role model.
Joey’s Lasting Legacy
Joey Loftsgard’s legacy is one of kindness, love, and quiet impact. His passing on September 17, 2024, left a void in Hiawatha, but his memory lives on through his family and community. His visitation on September 23, 2024, from 4 to 8 p.m., and memorial service on September 24, 2024, at 10:30 a.m., both at The Legacy Center at Murdoch-Linwood Funeral Home in Cedar Rapids, brought loved ones together to honor him. Joey’s life teaches us to cherish family, stay kind, and live with purpose. Memorials to Foundation 2 keep his spirit of giving alive. His children, Parker and camdyn, carry his love forward, while friends share stories of his warmth on social media and guestbooks. Joey didn’t seek fame, but his actions made him unforgettable. By living with integrity and care, he showed us how to make the world better, one small act at a time.
