Donna posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 3, 2016
Joe was umpiring a little league game with horrible pitching. No one was even attempting to hit, just waiting to walk. So of course Joe decides to make them hit by calling strikes every time ball came anywhere near them. Instant dislike by team up at bat. Second team felt same way when they were at bat. Lots of yelling at the ump from coaches and parents but Joe stayed his course and kids started attempting to hit. So 2 outs for a team and up to bat is a girl who hasn't been able to catch or bat looking quite miserable. Well she hit a great one. She looked stunned, so surprised that she had done that. .And after that, when in outfield, she was running and leaping for ball and catching it, a total transformation. For Joe, this delighted him, that he had a part in making a little girl's day better, that she had found joy in the game. All the name calling he got was worth it to him because he made a difference in a young person's life. And that was the essence of Joe, compassionate, thoughtful and willing to stand for what he believed in. Fly high Joe although you are dearly missed by loved ones, we know you are in good hands. Greatest sympathy to Jan, Jon, Mike. Jamie and Jennifer.
