Joel M. Ailes

Joel M. Ailes, age 64, who grew up in Alliance, Ohio, passed away at his home in Gilroy, California, on January 19, 2026, surrounded by family, after a courageous four-year battle with cancer.

He was a graduate of Alliance High School, and he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Transportation Logistics, from The Ohio State University Business School.

Joel eventually made his way to California, where he took a position with Mike Conrotto Trucking as a Terminal Manager. It was there that he met his wife, Lana. Over the course of his career, Joel dedicated more than 35 years to the transportation industry, including the successful startup of his own transportation logistics company.

In his younger years, Joel enjoyed playing football and riding motorcycles. Throughout his life, he loved golfing, skiing, camping, fishing and playing BlackJack.

He was a good friend to many, and wouldn’t hesitate to help anyone in need.

Above all else, Joel was a devoted and loving father to his four children and a proud “Peeha” to his six grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dorothy and John Ailes; his youngest sister, Sally Ailes; and his son, Jeramy Ailes.

He is survived by his sisters, Margaret (Brian) Gothot and Mary (James) Soltys; his children, Janay (Rory) Moore, Jenny (Franky) Nuñez, and Leah (Gennaro) Fiorillo; his grandchildren, Jeramy Moore; Mila, Nova, and Izadora Nuñez; Luca and Hailee Fiorillo; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and beloved dog, Cali.

A Celebration of Life will be held on a future date.

In lieu of flowers, you can donate to the non-profit Save Our Sheps Rescue, where Joel received his dog Cali, the dog he loved.

Save Our Sheps Rescue

EIN: 92-1342117

www.saveourshepsrescue.org