Joy Flaxel Obituary Obituary April 1, 2026
Joy Carmen Flaxel, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2026, in Portland, Oregon, at the age of 90.
Born in Denver, Colorado, on June 12,1935 to Frank and Tina Merelli, Joy was raised in a loving environment by a large Italian family that instilled in her a lifelong appreciation for connection and community. Her family owned and operated a ballroom diner and nightclub in Denver, which became a central part of her upbringing and undoubtedly fueled her lively social spirit. She often shared stories of working as a coat check girl, claiming it taught her the value of a smile and the joy of giving (and receiving) generous tips.
Joy attended Colorado State University, where she met her first husband, Bill Gardner. Together they moved to John Day, Oregon, and had two wonderful children, Christina and Bill. After Bill’s untimely passing, Joy relocated to Portland to continue her education and raise her young family.
In Portland, Joy’s life took a turn when she met John Thad Flaxel, a young medical student, on a blind date. It was love at first sight, and they married just three months later. Their union was marked by deep affection and partnership as they welcomed four children-Kathy, Teresa, Gina, and Johnny. Together they embraced the joyful chaos of raising six children. Joy and John shared over 60 years of marriage filled with love, adventure and holding hands until John’s passing in 2023.
Her faith guided her life, inspiring her family and friends with devotion, positivity and generosity. Joy’s greatest happiness was being surrounded by her children and grandchildren. She loved social gatherings, coffee, gin and tonics, bridge with her close friends and cheering on the Oregon Ducks and Portland Trailblazers. Her warmth, fiery Italian spirit and radiant smile left a lasting impression.
Joy is survived by her six children, eleven grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and her dog Snow. Her legacy is one of love-for family, faith, friends, sports, pasta and her dogs. She will deeply missed and lovingly remembered every time we have a gin & tonic.
A memorial service for Joy will be held at Saint Michael’s the Archangel Catholic Church in Portland on June 12 at 10 a.m., followed by a Celebration of Life for Joy & John at The Wildflour Pub in North Bend.
