Tammy posted a condolence
Thursday, January 18, 2024
So sad to hear of Joe's passing. I used to bump into Joe when he was out and about walking in Glace Bay and he would always have a smile, chat and a hug for me each time. Joe told me stories of his skating days and would show me on foot how he used to skate and others have remarked about what a beautiful skater he was in his younger years. We would often share a laugh and I can never forget his mischievous grin. He also talked very highly of his sisters and how they were always there to help when he needed them. Joe showed up to my wedding in 2005 at The Bay Plex as he was walking on the track upstairs I looked up and who was looking down at me and waving but my buddy Joe. He came for a quick visit and chat with friends and a good slice of cheesecake! Joe was quite the worker. I've never seen someone sweep and mop a floor so beautifully as him and he took pride in any work he was carrying out. He also used to show me the wedding pictures of him and his wife Shirley and was very proud of her and quite sad without her, often with tears in his eyes telling me about their life. Joe was always the same each time we chatted, baseball cap, jeans, T-shirt, and sneakers. Or all bundled up in the most stylish of clothes if it was winter. I will certainly miss seeing him around town, and will treasure the beautiful picture of him taken at my wedding. My condolences to his sisters who were so good to Joe through the years and he appreciated your support. He also had a very nice place of residence later in life that seemed to really help him stay healthy. I still remember too how proud he was when he gave up smoking. Like we all do, Joe struggled at times but always kept a positive attitude and stayed active until his legs and feet started giving him problems. I missed seeing him around and he will be greatly missed for sure, but cannot wait till the day I can see him again in perfect health and happiness skating to his hearts content as graceful as a bird. If anyone gets the chance to look up the song by Toby Keith called, "Don't Let The Old Man In," please take the opportunity to take a listen. Old age unfortunately catches up with us all and this song really drives that home and the importance of not forgetting our aging loved ones from day to day who can't do what they used to and often become lonely and feel forgotten. In the words of the late and great John Prine, "Don't Just walk by and stare, say "Hello In There, Hello..." We will miss you Joe. We will skate together someday when there will be no more sickness, old age, sadness, tears or heartache. Looking forward to seeing you there, your friends, Tammy and Jonathan Volkes, Glace Bay, NS.
CREMATION~CHAPEL~RECEPTION
