Joel R. Kergaravat

Joel Raymond Kergaravat, of Stoneham MA, passed away on April 13, 2023.

He attended Stoneham High and Farr Academy, graduating with the Class of 2000.  He furthered his education at UMass/Boston, Salem State College, and Kaplan Technical School.

He apprenticed at several local electrical companies, and became a Licensed Journeyman for IBEW Local 103, specializing in control systems and fire alarms.   He was passionate and proud of the careful and thorough work he did as an electrician, and very much enjoyed the challenge of troubleshooting circuit problems.  His co-workers appreciated this and looked up to him.

Joel struggled with mental illness all his life and with Substance Use Disorder as an adult. He got huge support from his immediate and extended family and from the ever-growing Recovery Community. His happiest times were spent with the Local 103 Sobriety Group.   Eventually, though, his internal turmoil overtook his strength. 

Everyone appreciated his intelligence and sense of humor during his healthier days. He had a heart and soul and a charm that was recognized by everyone but him.  He never turned his back on a friend or an acquaintance or even a stranger who was in need. He dedicated limitless time and resources to anyone who could use help.

“Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind. Always.” (Robin Williams)

We ask that you keep Joel in mind when you encounter someone who is struggling with mental illness and/or drug addiction.  Don’t be afraid; don’t judge; sit quietly and listen if you don’t know what say.  Just reach out like Joel would have and remember that no one chooses to lead a tormented life.

Joel is survived by his mother, Christine Gravel Kergaravat, of Stoneham, his brother Jamie and his family (partner Nicole Cardelle and daughter Sophia) of Dracut MA, his sister, Brittany Bynack and her family (husband Mike, daughter Lexus, and son Anthony) of Otis MA.

He also leaves behind innumerable supportive friends, extended family members, and colleagues, who helped him through some of his darkest times.

There will be a Remembrance Gathering at McDonald-Finnegan Funeral Home, 322 Main St, Stoneham MA, on Wednesday from 3:30-4:30PM followed by reflections from 4:30-5PM.  A reception dinner at the Hilton Boston/Woburn, 2 Forbes Ave, Woburn, MA. All family and friends are invited.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you consider making a donation to one of the following:

Samaritans Suicide Prevention Services (https://samaritanshope.org/)

MOAR Massachusetts Organization for Addiction Recovery (https://www.moar-recovery.org/ )

MASH Massachusetts Alliance for Sober Housing (https://mashsoberhousing.org/)

Shatterproof (https://www.shatterproof.org/ )