Joel Randolph Finchum, retired pipe fitter

Joel Randolph Finchum, 77, of Dagsboro, formerly of Pasadena, Md., passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family Sunday, May 16, 2021, at his home.

He was born in Baltimore, Md., Oct. 12, 1943, son of the late Harry Amos Finchum and the late Maizie Virginia (Painter) Finchum.  Joel graduated from Baltimore City College High School and then proudly served his country in the U.S. Coast Guard during the Vietnam War.  

Joel retired as a principal installer and pipefitter at the Baltimore Gas & Electric Company, retiring in 1994 after 25 years of service.  Following his retirement, Joel did some independent consulting with the company before moving to Delaware in 2000.  Joel was an avid football fan and enjoyed refinishing furniture in his spare time.  He and his wife, Donna were also very active members with the Parkinson’s Education & Support Group of Sussex County and also participated in their exercise group.  

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his three brothers, John Heatwole, Harry Finchum and Richard Finchum.  Joel is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Donna A. (Mister) Finchum; a daughter, Emily Finchum; a sister, Gaynelle Guercio; and many nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Wednesday, May 19, at the Ocean View Chapel of Melson Funeral Services, 38040 Muddy Neck Road, Ocean View, where a funeral service to celebrate his life will begin at 12:30 p.m.  Interment will follow at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Millsboro.  Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, social distancing protocols will be observed and masks are required for those in attendance.  

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Joel’s name to the Parkinson’s Education & Support Group of Sussex County, PO Box 56, Lewes, DE 19958.

Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com