Chris just called me tonight with the news of Joe's passing. He was a great man and friend, and I will miss his calls immensely.

I had just called Joe earlier this week and had a great visit with him, lasting for at least a half hour. His speech was slurred and he was having trouble holding the phone up to his mouth, but I could still understand most of what he was saying. His mind was quite clear, and he and I reminisced of years, people, telescopes and CCAS observing outings going back into 1970 when I first met Joe at age 19 (and Joe was in his early 30's). He asked if I'd ever heard from Virgil Rudd again, which I hadn't. He had heard from Rodney Rocha not too long ago. We remembered many funny stories about Gordon McLerran, and there are more Gordon stories than can be remembered in one conversation. He talked about his 6" and 10" scopes, and about the little 6" f/3.9 RFT I made that he absolutely loved to look through. It was a great visit, and I'm so glad I got to hear his very distinct and familiar voice one last time.

Joe always called me at least once or twice a year, out of the blue, and we'd launch off into telescope talk like no time had ever passed. His mind was ALWAYS working, always thinking about that next telescope or observing session. He really liked going out to Lipantitlan, that seemed to be his favorite place to observe.

I will miss Joe sorely. I'm glad he's free of the shackles of his ruined body and free to sail from Star to Star (thank you Markie!) without hindrance of space or time, or asteroids in the path. I look forward to reuniting with Joe in the distant future, and once again having him mentor me in the marvels of this and all other universes and all the goodies in them, this time close up and personal.

God bless ya Joe, you had a great life and a lot of dedicated friends you've left with good memories.

Mike