Joel Anthony Papay

Joel Anthony Papay, 38, of Bloomington, Indiana, passed away due to natural causes, December 4, 2024. He was born on October 17, 1986, in Edina, Minnesota, son of Anthony Louis and Alice Lynn (Pischulla) Papay. Joel was the first-born grandchild of both the Pischulla and Papay grandparents.

Joel was a gifted musician. He was first chair trumpet all 4 years at Carmel High School. He played in Carmel Marching, Concert and Jazz Bands, and Orchestra. His recent interest was music from the 1980s.

Attaining the rank of Eagle Scout and enjoying the outdoors, Joel experienced the High Adventure Camps of the Boundary Water of Minnesota/Canada, canoeing 50 miles over seven days with Troop 125 of Our Lady of Mount Carmel and the Island High Adventure Camp off the Florida Keys. These offered countless laughs and experiences. Scouting also led Joel to a hobby of collecting geodes from Monroe State Park. In October Joel and his dad hiked Spring Mill Park in Indiana. His goal was to visit the 50 states and much of that was accomplished.

Joel worked as a Research and Software Engineer with Aeon Imaging, LLC. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish, Germanic Studies, and Computer Science from Indiana University Bloomington in 2009. He continued his education and acquired his PhD in Vision Science in 2022.

With an infectious laugh, Joel easily made friends and had many across the United States. He was very kind, easy going, generous, and thoughtful. He also enjoyed playing cards with extended family at holiday gatherings throughout the year. He was known for dedicating time to gifting siblings and family members.

Survivors include his parents, Anthony and Alice Papay; siblings, Nathan, Aidan, Paula, and Audrey Papay; paternal grandparents, Richard and Helga Papay; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Friends and family will gather Tuesday, December 10, 2024 at 10 am in Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church, 14598 Oak Ridge Road, Carmel, where the Mass of Christian Burial will be conducted at 11 am.

Interment will follow in Our Lady of Peace Cemetery.

In memory of Joel, contributions can be made to the Special Olympics of Indiana, 6200 Technology Center Dr. # 105, Indianapolis, IN 46278 or Little Sisters of the Poor, St Augustine Home, 2345 W 86th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260.

Bussell Family Funerals is privileged to assist the family in arrangements.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joel Anthony Papay, please visit our floral store.