“Joey” was born in Great Falls, the fourth of seven children. He was at home until he was six years old, then became a resident of the Montana Developmental Center. He lived there until moving to the Porphyry House in Butte, where he stayed until his passing.
Joey was a light to all around him. He loved crunchy, squeaky toys and going fast in his wheelchair, and his favorite food was Cheetos. One of our best memories was cruising down the sidewalk with Joey and his infectious laugh. He had such an easygoing and gracious personality, to the point where he was nicknamed “Joe Cool.” He always loved when we came to visit and recognized our voices.
He touched so many lives, which was evident by the number of people who came to see him in his last days. He had individuals from years past and present come and display just how much they cared and enjoyed him. It was so special to see how he had affected people.
Joey was preceded in death by his father Vern Kroll and by two older brothers, Mike and Jim Kroll. He is survived by his mother, Winona Kroll, of Helena, (brother) John (Raylene) Kroll of Battle Mountain, NV, (brother)Dan (Janna) Kroll of Helena, (sister) Verna Kroll of Bozeman, (sister) Lori Kroll of Helena, (sister-in-law) Kristie Kroll of Boulder, and (sister-in-law) Karen Kroll of Chatham, NH. Joey also had numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins who loved him dearly.
Our family would like to express our gratitude to the staff of the Montana AWARE program, caregivers of Porphyry House, Honey Bee Hospice, and K&L Mortuaries.
Joey passed away peacefully in the early morning hours on a bright and beautiful day when God earned another angel. He was greeted with love into the “Great Man Cave” in the sky, healed and whole to enjoy a new life. He taught us all to live life with a happy and true heart, accepting others no matter their looks or their place in life. Rest in peace, Joe Cool.
