Hackensack, NJ Community Message Boards

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.