Dr. Joel Rubin, 80, of Ocean View, Delaware, passed away on December 12, 2023, at Beebe Hospital in Lewes, Delaware surrounded by his family. Joel was born on May 18, 1943, in New York, New York, to parents Barney and Rose Rubin.

Joel earned his degree from Hofstra University in Hempstead, New York. Following his passion and love for animals, he further pursued his education at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. There he met his beloved wife, Maria, who also attended the University of Pennsylvania and they were married in June of 1967. Following his graduation in 1968, Joel proudly served in the US Army at Edgewood Arsenal in Edgewood, Maryland, for two years.

In 1973, Joel established a veterinary practice on Nebel Street in Rockville, Maryland after relocating to Springfield, Virginia. In 1978, Joel, Maria and their two children moved to Merrick, New York, where he founded County Animal Hospital in Bellmore, New York. In 1988, after settling in Pennsylvania, Dr. Rubin became a part of the research facility at the University of Pennsylvania, subsequently earning a position in the Department of Agriculture as a veterinarian medical officer.

Upon retirement, Joel and Maria chose to reside in Ocean View, Delaware, for their shared love of the beach and to pursue Joel's favorite hobby, fishing. Joel is survived by his wife of 56 years, Maria, his son Steven Rubin, daughter Linda King, and six loving grandchildren: Ryan and Alexandra Rubin and Lily, Zachary, Chase, and Brody King.

A funeral service will be held at Temple Beth Ami (14330 Travilah Rd, Rockville, MD 20850) on Sunday December 17, 2023 at 3:00 P.M.  Interment will be held the following day, Monday, December 18, 2023 at 2:30 P.M. at Washington Crossing National Cemetery (830 Highland Rd, Newtown, PA 18940).

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mitochondrial Disease Foundation , Wounded Warrior Project , ASPCA or Temple Beth Ami .