This morning I got a call from Liz Springer, the wife of Joe's longtime childhood friend, Pete Springer. She called to share that Pete had died suddenly and peacefully in his recliner watching television this morning. Joe and Pete went to Precious Blood grade school together in Detroit and played basketball together as early as 5th grade and remained friends throughout high school playing in the band together and Pete was our best man in our wedding (photo August 29, 1964). Liz and Pete stayed in touch with us throughout our lives through Christmas cards, calls and the occassional visit. Pete called Joe last week to say goodbye and was very upset with the whole situation. Joe spoke with Liz today and shared a cry as they both remembered their friend. I told Joe that Pete would be waiting for him in heaven. It is neat to picture the two of them together again reunited through the wisdom of God's timing.
Friday, November 21, 2008
He's waiting for Joe
This morning I got a call from Liz Springer, the wife of Joe's longtime childhood friend, Pete Springer. She called to share that Pete had died suddenly and peacefully in his recliner watching television this morning. Joe and Pete went to Precious Blood grade school together in Detroit and played basketball together as early as 5th grade and remained friends throughout high school playing in the band together and Pete was our best man in our wedding (photo August 29, 1964). Liz and Pete stayed in touch with us throughout our lives through Christmas cards, calls and the occassional visit. Pete called Joe last week to say goodbye and was very upset with the whole situation. Joe spoke with Liz today and shared a cry as they both remembered their friend. I told Joe that Pete would be waiting for him in heaven. It is neat to picture the two of them together again reunited through the wisdom of God's timing.
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6 comments:
My dear friend,
You are the one I think about, and I smile. I think of your laugh. Then I think of how you sometimes say, "I'm not so great" and give a little Joe smirk. I think you need to know that I believe you are just that. You are a great man Joe. I love you. I care about you. Knowing you makes my heart feel good inside. Thank you for loving our family Joe. Thank you for making a difference in our lives and the lives of African orphans and widows. For those of them that have proceeded us, please let them know I love them too. Please tell Jesus that I don't understand why you have to leave. I wish you could stay Joe. I wish a lot of things, but mostly right now I wish you peace. Go in peace Joe. They are all waiting for you. I know you are about to find out how much you have done here... and I know you will be surprised.
Pray for me Joe. Pray for all of us. We will miss you.
Melody
"A friend in need is a friend indeed."
Joe, I've read that when we stand before our Saviour, Jesus, all that we've brought to Him will be standing behind us. I cannot imagine the hoard of souls who will be with you, thanking you for bringing them to Him. I can only hope and pray that those of us left here will be able to bring your love for Him to more than we can imagine, thanks to your example.
Love you and stand in awe of you and your family - what a patriarch you are and have been.
Sara
Dear Joe,Mary Anne and Family,
Our continued thoughts and prayers especially at this time. We have been following the blog daily and truely enjoy the Christian messages, prayers and stories you share.
Thank you sharing that strength and love.
Joe and Mariallyn
Dear Joe and family,
You continue to be in my prayers. I will never forget our visit last Sunday....I left church and a message about 'heaven' to visit you. Entering your home, it was evident that in the midst of the sadness, there was hope and peace. Although, I've only known you, Joe, for a couple years, I'm sure I'm better for it! You are an inspiring guy. As I told you last weekend, I continue to pray for your family as I'm listening to the song "In Christ Alone"...."no guilt in life, no fear in death--this is the power of Christ in me...from life's first cry, to final breath; Jesus commands my destiny; 'Til He returns, or calls me home; here in the power of Christ I stand". You are a wonderful example, Joe. Thanks for being you.
In God's Love,
Pam Haines
HI Joe and all!
When I think of Joe there are so many things thjat come to mind. But one scripture really speaks of Joe's life. I Cor 15-23, but specifically the last few words: I, Paul, amd a messenger of this Message. Certainly there are many who were introduced to Jesus by Joe. It was my pleasure to know and do ministry with you Joe. Love to you and all your family.
Glenn
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