Tuesday, February 28, 2023
Joe was a dear friend to Mary and me. We met at West Point in 1972. He and I taught European history together for my three years there. He also taught a class on Comparative Religions, the first of its kind at West Point. Joe was loved by cadets. He also made great friends with some very brilliant members of the Departments of English, Social Sciences and elsewhere.
Joe's love of opera found a perfect outlet in the Met in New York City, a 50 mile drive away. To make these drives, he bought a used Ford Pinto. For comfort, Joe had the back seat removed and had the shop move the driver's seat as far back as possible and weld it to the floor. The drive was a whole lot easier that way!
After West Point, Mary and I tried to visit Joe every year on our way back from Florida. We also got to celebrate his 90th birthday, flying from Baltimore to enjoy a wonderful lunch at one of Joe's favorite Italian restaurants. Despite his ailments, Joe remained alive and engaged. He lived life to the fullest.
We miss him already, and are certain that his family and many friends in Chapel Hill do as well. He was a true joy in our lives.
