Joel Charles Canfield passed from this life on July 13 at Bassett Hospital after an acute illness. Joel was born in Amsterdam, NY to Earl and Antoinette (Willets) Canfield and grew up in Canajoharie, finding building and racing stock cars his undying passion. He raced at speedways all over the state, his favorite being Fonda and Morris. Joel was inducted into the Central New York Stock Car Hall of Fame in 2016.
Joel loved building, and established his own business as Canfield’s Backyard Enterprises which ran for over 30 years. If traveling around Delaware County you don’t have to go far to see a porch, deck or building he created.
When Joel believed in something he did it with his whole heart and soul. He loved politics and would discuss for hours every pro and con. He devoted time and money to causes he loved, and one of his famous ones was the Elvis Project, where he found needy families who needed help and bought fuel oil, paid rent or whatever they needed. He remained anonymous in this.
Joel is survived by his spouse of 28 years, Connie, his stepchildren Mariah, Ben and Simon, and cousins Marjorie Canfield and Jerry Snyder. He has a niece and nephew, Liz and Jay Canfield. He was predeceased by his brother John and son,Jason Canfield, who passed in 1991, and whom he found waiting at Heaven’s door.
His funeral service will be at Houghtaling and Hanley Funeral Home, 20 Otsego St., Canajoharie, NY on July 20. Calling hours are from 12-2 p.m. with a service from his long-time friend Reverend Wayne Cole at 2 p.m.
Burial will follow immediately at the family plot in Canajoharie Falls Cemetery.
