Age 77, passed away peacefully on Saturday evening, October 16, 2021, at his home. He was aware until the end of his family who were surrounding him. Joel was born in Kalamazoo, on July 15, 1944, the son of Nelson and Evelyn (Johnson) Widman. On February 5, 1965, he married Pauline “Polly” Greiner, who survives him. Joel worked for many years in the production and planning departments of the Upjohn Company. He was an avid racquetball player and enjoyed collecting antique medicine bottles. Joel proudly served his nation in the United States Army. Nothing was more important to him than his grandchildren. He worked tirelessly over the past several years, taking care of his beloved Polly.  Besides his wife, Joel is survived by his sons. Mark (Shelly) Widman, and William “Bill” (Becky) Widman, both of Kalamazoo; grandchildren, Jack, Julie, Owen, Luke and Grace; brother, James “Jim” Widman; nieces and nephews; and countless friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister in law, Debbie Widman.