Posted by Phil Farmer on October 3, 2011:

Joe and I were never close, but as a classmate, he is my brother. As I remember, Joe was in I-2 and I was in G-1. Before we retired our only contact was when Joe was flying a C-123 and I was the jumpmaster. We retired on the same day and we lived hardly 5 miles apart, but I got to know Joe closely at his funeral. There were graveside rites with full military honors at the Lexington (KY) cemetery sunken garden at 10 AM. The slopes were lined with friends and admirers. We then went to the church for a memorial service at 11:30 followed by a luncheon in the church hall. Joe was a founding father of his church. At precisely 1:15 PM we all went outside for a flyover by a C-130. Joe was praised (or roasted) by so many people from all over the region. Ivar Rundgren and Dick Hanson spoke at the cemetery and the luncheon. Every aspect of his life was covered. This lasted until 2:30 PM. I don't think I have known anyone so highly respected. He was everything to his family and friends. I had the privilege of meeting his family, and what a wonderful family they are! Joe, your task on earth is done. Be thou at peace.

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