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Joel L. Stander passed away on Oct. 2 after a courageous battle with cancer.

Joel was born May 19, 1946, in Syracuse, New York. Following his graduation from SUNY Geneseo, he began a merchandising career in Philadelphia working for Strawbridge & Clothier. He was soon recruited as a designer for a number of companies, including Sero, Munsingwear, Eagle, and Camstar Industries. He was known in the industry for his forward thinking and innate sense of what was on the horizon.

In 1996, he realized a life-long dream of opening his own store in Madison,where he was able to showcase his creativity and style. He prided himself in offering hard-to-find, exciting brands for his customers. His creativity was also expressed through his photography, gardening, and keen interest in music, movies, and pop culture.

He is survived by his wife Nancy Kidd Stander; their children Jessica Stander McHarg (John) of Marietta, Georgia, and Justin Stander of Madison; granddaughter Clara McHarg; as well as his brothers Lyle Stander of Tampa, Florida, and Seth Stander of Houston, Texas. He is also survived by his sisters Lisa Horel of San Jose, California, and Sara Mahony of Manlius, New York. He is predeceased by his son Jonathan Stander, his parents Karl and Ann Stander, and his brother Eric.

The family would like to thank Drs. Victor Morris and Jill Lacy as well as the nurses and staff members who cared for Joel at Smilow Cancer Hospital throughout his journey. They will also be forever grateful to Connecticut Hospice for the care and compassion they provided during Joel’s final days.

A celebration of Joel’s life will be planned at a later date. Contributions may be made to Smilow Cancer Hospital/Closer to Free (www.closertofree.com) or the Guilford Fire Department.