He died 3/4 of the way through his 83rd year, on borrowed time really since he had a lung replacement six or seven years ago and a pacemaker a month ago. He was a millionaire before his first wife collected her share after the divorce. He didn’t act like a millionaire. He didn’t even act like a rich guy. We were hot rodder’s and bikers together, – long ago but not so long that the memories are gone. He was a car guy. He drove motorcycles but wasn’t a dirty-necker. Had a restored 1939 Dodge that he named: “The Butlers Car”. Drove nice cars all of his life but never a Rolls, a Bentley or a Caddy. He finally bought a Mercedes. A convertible, not a big Mercedes sedan. We’ve been together since first grade at Saint Martin of Tours School in Philly. He went into the Marines. I went to college. Drove a Harley down to Camp Lejune to ride home with Joe. He went into real estate. Retired at a young age. Never dressed extravagantly. Never bought an expensive watch. Was happy to tell me: “it cost $14. Keeps good time.” We saw politics the same. Voted the same way. He loved his kids even though he was prevented from seeing his grandchildren by his rather vindictive daughter probably by his acrimonious, vengeful first wife. He, nevertheless provided for them in his will. His second wife was perfect for him. She did everything right and loved him. So did we. Periodically we went to dinner together, mostly at The Golden Dawn Diner in Levittown or Erwin’s in Feasterville. Nothing extravagant even though we could all afford it. Saw him before we went on vacation. Called after and found out he wasn’t doing good. He just passed away. We know he enjoyed his life despite the few low points. A great set of memories are left behind. Probably we will never forget him. It was great Joe… Thanks.
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