Joel Joseph Kamp, 70 years, of Fort Madison, Iowa died at 12:40 pm Friday, December 5, 2014 at Mercy Medical Center, Des Moines, Iowa. He was born May 1, 1944 at Fort Madison, Iowa a son of Jerome J. and Ora Virginia (Graft) Kamp. On August 29, 1980, he married Tracy Higgins at Fort Madison, Iowa. She survives.

Joel was a graduate of Fort Madison High School. He did his undergraduate studies at the University of Iowa, and earned his Law Degree from the University of Mississippi. After law school he practiced law locally, including with the Fehseke Law Firm. He was appointed as a District Associate Judge with the Iowa Eighth Judicial District. He served for more than 20 years before retiring. He continued his service part-time as a Senior Judge for more that 6 years.

He was a member of the Church of Christ, Scientist. Upon retirement he became a member of the National Rifleman's Association and the TriState Gun Club. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, the outdoors, and wildlife. He loved reading Ernest Hemingway's writings, as well history books, especially on World War II. His family and friends were very important to him.

He is survived by his wife, Tracy Kamp, of Fort Madison, Iowa; two uncles, Jerry and Pat Kamp, both of Fort Madison, Iowa; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: David (wife Elsa) Higgins, of Henderson, Nevada; Linda (husband Brad) Donahue, of Des Moines, Iowa; Julie (husband Ken) Winzeler, of Shalimar, Florida; and Jayne Merritt, of Keokuk; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Mary Kamp.

Per his wishes, his body has been cremated, and no formal services will be held. A memorial has been established for Three Rivers Conservation Foundation, contributions may be sent to the Barr Memorial Chapel.