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Joe DeFalco

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Rob Gartner:
My wife and I didn’t grow up in Hackensack so we didn’t know him as long as many others but Joe made us feel very much at home.  Despite his business schedule, he always had time to talk, ask about our children and humor us with a story.  He made us feel like great lifelong friends.  We appreciate the time we knew Joe but only wish it had been for a lot more years.

I first met Joe playing golf a few years back.  Since he didn’t seem to be playing well that day, I make some encouraging remarks along the way (“Don’t worry.  You’ll get the next one).  Not really knowing him, I was trying to be friendly.  His play never seemed to bother him, he just kept on smiling.  Halfway through the round (I assume to take the pressure off me), he finally laughed and told the truth: “What do you mean get better?  This is the way I always play.”  Much to my embarrassment, he loved to repeat that story.

I think Joe would have made a great mayor.  I am sorry he will not get the chance.  He clearly loved the city and its people.  Judging from the reaction I saw from many students, teachers and parents today, the feeling was clearly mutual.  Joe was as good an ambassador as the schools and the city could have asked for.

Our condolences go out to his family and friends.   Thanks, Joe, for being a friend.  We will miss you.

Editor:
Originally posted by "WestaRick":

I would like to express my deepest condolences to the DeFalco family. Though I did not know Joe personally, I cannot recall a single instance where anyone said anything but good about him. My thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time of sorrow.

Editor:
Posted by "Jsmith" in the High School thread:

As a current student of HHS, Some of the comments amaze me about what some people thing about the high school. But if some were at the school today and saw the reaction to the news of Mr. DeFalco's death, you would not believe the unity... We all became one family, and I am proud to be a part of it. Rest In Peace Mr. Joe DeFalco

Editor:
Latest stories:

DeFalco leaves lasting impression

DeFalco remembered as advocate for students

kathgo:
What a loss for Hackensack! Joe DeFalco was an extraordinary man, who really seemed to love what he was doing! His friendly manner and his warm smile will be sorely missed.
     Our sincere sympathy is extended to the DeFalco family, to his many friends, to Hackensack High, and to the city of Hackensack.

                                      With Warm Regards,
                                       Kathleen Gough(class of '66) and Matthew Atwan(class of '97)

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