Higganum Man Succumbs to Car Crash Injuries

Joel Leon "Cubby/Hocus Pocus Magic" Junokas, Jr., 40, of Higganum, died on Tuesday, January 17th surrounded by his loving family at Hartford Hospital from injuries sustained in an automobile accident that took place on Friday the 13th down the street from his childhood home. Born in New Britain, he was the son of Joel and Cecelia (Mercier) Junokas of Higganum.

Joel was a member of Iron Workers Local Union 15 in Hartford. When he was laid off he would perform volunteer services at the Goodwill in Clinton and on Wednesdays, he would volunteer at Christ Lutheran Church in Middletown. He loved the Grateful Dead and nothing made him happier than playing his guitar and listening to music. He was a Roman Catholic and had just recently found God. Joel always had a smile on his face especially when his daughter was mentioned. He was a sensitive soul and cared more about others than himself. His greatest gift of all is that in death he became an organ donor and gave somebody a chance of a better life because his was just not meant to be. Joel truly cared about people and will be missed by all who knew him.

Along with his parents, he is survived by his daughter, Jasmine Cherise of Killingworth; his sister, Jodi Junokas; his niece and nephew, Anna and Alexander, all of Marlborough; and the love of his life, Allyson Byrne of Enfield.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 21st at 3:00pm at Cromwell Funeral Home, 506 Main Street, Cromwell with Rev. John J. Marschhausen officiating. Interment will be at the convenience of the family.

Friends may call on Saturday from 1:00 to 3:00pm at the Cromwell Funeral Home and in lieu of flowers may make donations in Joel's memory to Christ Lutheran Church, 300 Washington Street, Middletown, CT 06457.

Messages of condolence may be sent to the family at www.doolittlefuneralservice.com.