Joel Carlsen

Joel Mills Carlsen passed away in his sleep the early morning of Sunday November, 23rd, 2025 at Mayo Luther Campus in Eau Claire, WI.

Joel Mills Carlsen was born on November 13th of 1990 in Minneapolis Minnesota to Julie Mills Carlsen & Daniel B. Carlsen.

From a young age Joel was a lively, intelligent child who thrived on structure and activity. He was hungry for details and often asked endless questions, only to debate the answers, but always seeking out what was right. Joel had energy to burn and from grade school through college he participated in the extracurricular activities of wrestling, playing trumpet in the Chippewa Valley Youth Symphony, Chippewa Valley Jazz Orchestra, Scouting, hunting, fishing, and helping his grandma, Mary Mills with anything she asked.

Joel showed up for his friends and sibling in both dark and light times with genuine concern and care. He didn't always wear his heart on his sleeve, but his actions showed otherwise.

Joel and his sister, Elissa ensured to give their mother, Julie an eventful, bright, and dynamic experience with their shared love for being goofy, unapologetically loud, caring, and curious. His bond with Elissa truly made a lasting impression that set up Joel's life for the same expression in his friendships.

The Trumpet exercised Joels creativity and paired well with his spunk for life. When at his Lutheran Church confirmation ceremony in 8th grade his youth pastor shared a bible passage that fits Joel well - "Make a joyful noise". He made so many, and it was a part of what created light and fun around him, and those he shared connection with.

His connections in the community expanded throughout grade school with Boy Scouts of America, and he went on to earn the honor of Eagle Scout, Order of the Arrow, and experienced National Youth Leadership Training for 2 years at Camp Phillips. He additionally completed a blue bird house project for one of his final contributions, dedications, and commitment to Scouts that he was very proud of.

Joel started playing the trumpet in 3rd grade. He played with the Chippewa Valley Youth Symphony for 3 years. He worked hard to climb his way to UWEC's Jazz 1 band. Beyond college graduation he carried on regularly with a big band called Troppo, the Chippewa Valley Jazz Orchestra, additionally playing Taps at Military and Police memorial services, college commencement ceremonies, and filling in with bands like "Weapons of Brass Destruction".

Though being accepted at many schools, Joel was drawn to attend UWEC for he knew Bob Baca was waiting for him in the music program. Joel loved his years there and made a community for himself of compassionate, professional, fun, and true friends - the culture and his cherished friends were his greatest joy.

Joel enjoyed a challenge and adventure. While living in Puerto Rico with his future wife Mesa, he managed to land a job with a major defense contractor Pratt Whitney, during Covid, using his second language, Spanish. Joel and Mesa were married on July 25th 2021, settled in River Falls, WI, and had a daughter named Olive on August 4th of 2022.

Joel leaves behind his Wife Mesa, Daughter Olive, Mother Julie Mills, Stepfather David Stokes, Father Dan Carlsen, Sister Elissa Carlsen, in laws Sue and Ty Covill, aunts, uncles, and numerous cousins.

Services to be held at Saving Grace Lutheran Church on Friday December 5th, at 1pm, with lunch to follow.