Obituary of Joël Hénault Robert

May 5, 1983 – Halifax, Nova Scotia

March 21, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

Joël Robert, beloved husband of April Robert, of Calgary, AB, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, March 21, 2024, at the age of 40 years.

Joël was born in Halifax, NS, on May 5, 1983. He found his home in Calgary, AB, in 1990. He married April Wilson in 2003. Joël loved his wife, whom he met at church in 1997. He was an incredible husband. They had a beautiful partnership and enjoyed sharing their lives together, having just celebrated their 21st wedding anniversary.

Joël was an extraordinary father to his children – Ava, Ella, Léo, and Étienne. They were the best of him and got the best of him. He took them on many adventures and loved showing them the beauty of nature and life. He tucked them in every single night, loved praying for them and making up funny stories. He was a proud coach, watched all of their sports and was an incredible encourager and teacher. He was also the best dog dad to Mocha.

Joël was known for his strong work ethic, entering the construction industry immediately after high school. In 2005, he established his first venture, Square One Foundations, eventually becoming the primary cribber for Baywest Homes by 2007. Partnering with Chris Barkey in 2014, they founded Benchmark Cribbing, which quickly rose to prominence as one of Calgary's premier cribbing providers. He was a savvy businessman and enjoyed his work thoroughly.

Joël took immense pride in both his family and his business, living his life authentically and wholeheartedly, always showing up for the people he loved. He lived his life to the fullest and loved being outdoors, going on epic hikes, runs, ski trips and rides with his friends and loved ones. Joël enjoyed good food with good people, and cherished spending summers in Windermere, taking their boat out on the lake, waterskiing, and tubing with family and friends.

A well-loved soccer coach for the Gunners and United teams with Foothills FC, Joël took immense pride in mentoring "his boys" and witnessing their growth. He also developed a passion for hockey, with the Montreal Canadiens as his favorite team and the Calgary Flames as a close second.

Besides his loving wife April, Joël is survived by his daughter Ella, and two sons, Léo and Étienne of Calgary, AB. Joël is also survived by his parents, François and Joanne of Calgary, AB, and his sister Cindy of Montréal, QC. He was predeceased by his daughter, Ava.

Funeral Services will be held at McKenzie Towne Church (7 McKenzie Towne Gate SE, Calgary, AB) on Tuesday, April 2, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. Joël loved sports and those who wish to wear a team jersey are invited to do so… except for the Oilers ;)

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Joël’s family here.

In living memory of Joël Robert, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Deerfoot South, 12281 – 40th Street SE, Calgary, AB T2Z 4E6, Telephone: 403-203-0525.

Click here to watch the Celebration of Life for Joël Robert