Hello Everyone,
I am Joe’s sister (as you know, one of 7 - third oldest sister and next youngest sibling to Joe). On June 21, 2006 my son Shawn emailed me a link to this site with the message “Mom, I thought you might want to read this”. At first I thought it might be another article on health and safety or maybe even a news article on something amazing somewhere in the world or some crazy - you gotta shake your head - fall off your chair laughing, piece of tidbit; because Shawn often passes such things along to me, keeping his mother either well informed or putting a smile on my face (he is in many ways like his Uncle Joe!!). Never in a million years would I have guessed that this link was going to take me to the most overwhelming, truly extraordinary and most astonishing place I have ever gone. The never ending, heartwarming and remarkable messages on this board stirred a rush of emotions within and those who know me, know very well that I don’t get emotional or sentimental much. But this was staggering, moving, gratifying, uplifting, touching, heartbreaking and cheerful laughter all in one. What all of you don’t realize is that what you have done here “was Joe”. This was the kind of stuff he loved. This was the greatest gift any of you could have given him because what motivated Joe, what made up his adventurous nature and what pushed his crazy pursuit of “the next greatest thing” was people – people like all of you – people who loved him – people who laughed, cried, joined, jumped on his band wagon - with him. You have no idea but this was the essence of his being.
Thank you, all of you, for your kindness and for sharing your thoughts and feelings with him. It is the most befitting exit for a man who had a heart of gold, who’s only passion was touching the hearts of others and who always made sure that the only expressions and sounds around him were laughter and music. Even his art made you either smile, stand in awe or took your heart to a warm place.
As I read the endless string of sentiments on this board, I smile and I cry all at the same time; but I never intended to respond or place my own feelings here. I just enjoyed and treasured each and every one of yours. But now at the end of all of this, it became increasingly clear that it would be totally remiss on my part if your compassion was left unrecognized. Joe and I have always had this unspoken understanding of love and respect for eachother and even our last words to eachother were whispered. I’m sure some of you had experienced that infectous laughter or giggle he had. That was all that was ever needed to cherish a special moment with him. But your thoughtfulness and open display of generosity is truly remarkable – again I say thank you.
To Ruth, Todd, Mike, his daughter-in-laws and his grandchildren, the only words I will express publically are those of the greatest love, respect and gratitude I have for you. You gave your love and devotion to my brother unconditionally and everyone should know that. You are the epitomy of greatness as he was, for you are all part of him. The rest of my warm feelings for you will continue to be shared privately.
My wonderful, beautiful brother, I know that you are looking down and reading this right now, giggling your little butt off at me for getting so soppy. Your soul and your presence will always be here with us. You left too much of yourself here to ever be erased. Your legacy to us is your laughter and zest for life. These are the memories you leave behind. The only sadness we will know of you is that we can no longer share that intensity of you here on this side. You did this last journey with style and grace, you truly “Did It Your Way” and you showed us what ‘Class’ really is – Kudos Big Brother – We Celebrate You!
Until we meet again on the flip side my sweet brother………..………..I love you dearly. Monica
