RAPID CITY - Joel George Sailer, age 26, of Rapid City, SD, passed unexpectedly on January 11, 2025. Joel was born on August 12, 1998, to George Sailer and Laura (Wise) Sailer.

Joel had an adventurous spirit and many hobbies. He found joy in bible study, riding his motorcycle, boating, shooting pool, target shooting, off-roading, video gaming, and heavy metal music.

Family barbecues were his favorite gatherings. Whether it be his new flame thrower to get the firepit started or his massive array of fireworks on the 4th of July, Joel always had something new and exciting to entertain loved ones with.

Joel had a remarkable ability and gift to uplift those around him, offering comfort and support to friends and family during tough times. His positive and humorous presence was immensely enjoyed by everyone.

From a young age, Joel aspired to serve his country, and he fulfilled that dream by joining the U.S. Marine Corps on July 24, 2017. He served with honor, specializing in Airborne/Air Delivery and Parachutist tactics, and spent two years stationed in Okinawa, Japan. Joel earned numerous accolades during his service, including the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (two awards), Sharpshooter Rifle Qualification Badge, Expert Pistol Qualification Badge, and the Basic Parachutist Insignia, and Gold Wing Jumper; of which he was most proud of.

Joel was deeply passionate about his Christian beliefs and strived to live as closely to God's teachings as possible. He dedicated time to studying the Bible and inspired others by encouraging them to attend worship services. A beloved member of Grace City, Joel was rebaptized on May 22, 2022. During his time at Grace City, Joel formed true friendships with many other members and with Pastor Quincy Good Star, whom he respected and looked up to.

Joel had a close relationship with his father, George, working alongside him in various construction roles, generally including concrete and iron work. They shared a mutual love for motorcycles and enjoyed meaningful rides through the Black Hills.

Joel found joy in the great outdoors alongside his mother, hiking, exploring backroads and creeks, and rock-hunting. Although, years later, he confessed he wasn't fond of rock hunting, but indulged this interest for the sake of his mother's joy.

Joel had a strong friendship with his nephews, Mars and Junior, and niece Jazmynn. They spent any free time they had together, making many cherishable memories. Their friendship and bond were an undeniable blessing.

In recent months, Joel enjoyed spending much time caring for his grandparents, Shorty and Joyce, and bringing joy to their days as well.

Joel will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His spirit, kindness, and laughter will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

Joel is survived by his father, George Sailer; his mother, Laurie Sailer; sisters, Traci Sailer and Ceclie Sailer (Eric Bear); paternal grandparents, Roland (Shorty) and Joyce Sailer; maternal grandparents, John and Mary Wise; niece, Jazmynne Allen (Joe War Bonnett); nephews: Amarion Sailer, Junior Allen, and Landon Green; great-nephews, Kassian and KaVaughn Allen; aunts: Sandy Feickert, Shari Pappert, Kristi (Scott) Winter, Cathy (Keith) Higley; uncle: Johnny and Korrie Wise; cousins: Ryan, Kyla, and Corey Feickert, Rick Pappert, Kelly Higley Larson, Brandt Higley, Riley Winter, and Spencer Wise.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Everta Hollingsworth Wise, uncle; Jim Pappert; his cousins: Zach Higley, Jonathon Higley, Cesrea Wise.

Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 23, 2025 at Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home.

Joel's funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 24, 2025 at Westminster Church with visitation starting at 10:00 a.m.

Burial will follow at 1:30 p.m. at Black Hills National Cemetery with full military honors rendered by the Rushmore VFW Post 1273 and the United States Marine Corps Honor Guard.

Pallbearers: Amarion Sailer, Junior Allen, Corey Feickert, Ryan Feickert, Joe War Bonnett, Johnny Wise, and Sidney Bartholow.

Honorary Pallbearers: Cheyanne Teeters, Jazmynn Allen, Kyla Feickert, Liz Hardman, Rick Pappert, and all friends and family in attendance.