Joel Robert Bishop

May 13, 1967 – January 1, 2021

Joel Robert Bishop””Father, Husband, Brother and Friend””passed away on January 1, 2021 in Turlock, California. Joel was born to Robert and Nola Ann Bishop in Moberly, Missouri on May 13, 1967.

Joel was a passionate golfer””and a good one! One of his greatest pleasures was golfing with his sons, playing in tournaments and volunteering. As a young man he worked as a professional golfer, later becoming an Electrician. He was excited when he went to work with E & J Gallo Winery where he worked for eight years as a Controls Technician. He enjoyed his work, and also used this time to learn more about the industry as well as about wine. He was definitely a good guy to have at the table when it was time to order the perfect wine and very much enjoyed giving good wine as a gift.

Joel was an active member of the Northern California Golf Association and the E & J Gallo Winery Golf Club. As a member of the Gallo Golf Club, Joel excelled at planning and participating in the Annual United Way Golf Tournament each year. His joy and enthusiasm encouraged participation in the event that meant so much to him.

Joel was appreciated for many things. He was an amazing cook who enjoyed making Sunday breakfast for his kids and any opportunity to share his skills as grill master extraordinaire. He loved his music and used his eclectic taste to finely tune some of the best playlists ever. He always wanted to do the very best for everyone and enjoyed spending time with extended family. He had a smile that could light up a room and was well liked by many who met him. He was a down-to-earth guy who was always willing to step in and help solve a problem.

Joel is survived by his wife of 16 years, Erin Bishop of Turlock and their two children Oliver and Miette. Joel also leaves behind two older children, Joelle Bishop and Baird Bishop of Tahoe City, an older sister, Beth Bishop Hardwick of Nevada City and eleven nieces and nephews living in California, Kentucky and Switzerland. He leaves aunts and cousins and a couple of friends who were like brothers. Joel was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Nola Ann Bishop and two brothers, Edward Bishop and Scott Bishop.

Joel had a full and busy life. He was deeply loved by family and friends and will be greatly missed by those he touched.

At this time there are no plans for a memorial service. Those who are moved are invited to offer donations in his memory to Jessica’s House of Turlock, California or the First Tee of Central Valley of Modesto, California.

Condolences(12)

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James Kaley says
November 30, 2021 at 12:38 am

I worked with Joel early on at Trax Bar & Grill in Turlock. He was the best of the best – never a better server, and always made work more enjoyable when we worked together. I meant to catch up with him at the US Open in Pebble Beach but missed the opportunity. He was my friend and I miss him. May he rest in peace.
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Denise M. Wigington says
May 5, 2021 at 6:03 pm

I remember Joel from school. He always had a smile. Always very polite and kind. I remember him having this very charismatic walk, or swagger. Sounds silly, but that stands out to me when I think of him. I am sorry his time here on earth wasn’t nearly long enough. God bless his family and may he rest in eternal peace.
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Sandra Baird Patton says
January 21, 2021 at 9:49 pm

Thank you for this beautiful tribute to Joel. I am the grandmother of Joelle and Baird Bishop. I was so grateful that Joel came to the funeral for my daughter, Natalie, who passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2017.
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Anna Pereira says
January 12, 2021 at 3:11 am

Joel and I worked together at the spirits dept for Gallo. He is/was a kind,funny and genuine guy. Always jumping into help where it was needed. He talked about family and you could hear and feel the love he had for them. He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
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Julie Smith says
January 11, 2021 at 5:12 pm

Joel was the be of the first people that I would see every morning when I arrived at work. I enjoyed all of our conversations. I will miss him . Prayers to Erin and family. May God comfort you during this difficult time.
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Kathy Herr says
January 10, 2021 at 8:10 pm

Erin, Oliver and Miette,
May you find solace in knowing that Joel loves you.
In the days, weeks, years ahead may you find peace and recall the joy of life together.
Love, Kathy
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Larry Machado says
January 10, 2021 at 4:30 am

I have Known Joel since high school he was a few years younger than me but we still knew each other, we played golf several times not planned just kind of happened that way,,,,, he always beat me ,,, But we still had a good time and had a few laughs he was a good man , A good friend and I’m sure a good husband and father as well ,,, I am saddened to hear this has happened and it hurts my heart for his family . RIP My friend ,,, PS ,,,God you got a good one this time ,,,,
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Craig & Lorii Anderson says
January 10, 2021 at 1:35 am

We have fond memories of Joel. At parties, it was always “I’ll have whatever he’s drinking”! That always ensured we had something we would be impressed with as well as great conversation. Our condolences to the entire family. I’ll bet Joel is “teeing up”right now. â¤ï¸ Fore!!!!
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Scott Lutz says
January 9, 2021 at 11:43 pm

I really enjoyed our time together when he came to Columbia in 2019. I loved talking electronic control stuff with him, and geeking out on grilling techniques. I loved how he signed up Linda for Amazon Music for the free trial, just so he could select the best playlist for the week. Our kids loved Oliver and Miette, and continue to stay in touch with them. Even though we weren’t close, I know we would’ve been good friends if we lived closer together.
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Laura Schoenweiler says
January 9, 2021 at 6:19 am

So sorry to hear about Joel. Sending hugs and prayers to Erin and family.
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Chris Paradiso says
January 9, 2021 at 6:16 am

Joel was the most down to earth person I’ve had the great pleasure of knowing. I will always cherish the countless conversations we shared, both professionally and personally. He had the amazing ability to lift you right up and always know how to deliver sound advice. I would love coming to work at 6am and seeing him first in the office playing his music soflty. I loved all his music!! I worked side by side with Joel for a very long time and I was always relieved when he walked in the room, knowing he would have a plan of attack. His intelligence was on another level!! Brilliant in my eyes!! Constantly bragging about his kids. Always!! I would love hearing about what recipe he put together the night before for dinner. We were always having some sort of hotsauce or pepper challenge. He sure loved his Dave’s Insanity sauce!! Fly high brother! You will be greatly missed!!
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Jim and Carol McRoberts says
January 9, 2021 at 4:30 am

We are so sorry for the sadness and loss of Joel. Peace be with the whole family.

Joel Robert Bishop May 13, 1967 - January 1, 2021

Condolences(12)

James Kaley says

Denise M. Wigington says

Sandra Baird Patton says

Anna Pereira says

Julie Smith says

Kathy Herr says

Larry Machado says

Craig & Lorii Anderson says

Scott Lutz says

Laura Schoenweiler says

Chris Paradiso says

Jim and Carol McRoberts says

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