I wrote this to Joe's wife and sons after he died:
Joe was my best friend from 2nd grade through high school, and a little beyond. We met in January 1970 when I got moved up from 1st grade into Mrs. Allbrecht's class, halfway through the school year. I walked into the room, small and young, with my bad haircut, black plastic glasses and, believe it or not, briefcase. Joe immediately took me under his wing. It took me a long time to realize that I was very lucky, that not everybody got this gift of friendship and acceptance when they needed it. I now know that a lot of people that Joe came across did.
Many of the memories from my formative years include Joe. It's very upsetting that we can't tell them to you together. The last time I saw you was in 2000. I think we drifted apart because of geography, separate careers, and the responsibilities of raising different families.
It took some time, but I was able to arrange the release of this photo from my ex-wife's possession. It was taken in my parents' driveway (where they still live!) in the afternoon before we headed over to the high school for graduation. I think it accurately captured our personalities.
Scot Benn
I wrote this to Joe's wife and sons after he died:
Joe was my best friend from 2nd grade through high school, and a little beyond. We met in January 1970 when I got moved up from 1st grade into Mrs. Allbrecht's class, halfway through the school year. I walked into the room, small and young, with my bad haircut, black plastic glasses and, believe it or not, briefcase. Joe immediately took me under his wing. It took me a long time to realize that I was very lucky, that not everybody got this gift of friendship and acceptance when they needed it. I now know that a lot of people that Joe came across did.
Many of the memories from my formative years include Joe. It's very upsetting that we can't tell them to you together. The last time I saw you was in 2000. I think we drifted apart because of geography, separate careers, and the responsibilities of raising different families.
It took some time, but I was able to arrange the release of this photo from my ex-wife's possession. It was taken in my parents' driveway (where they still live!) in the afternoon before we headed over to the high school for graduation. I think it accurately captured our personalities.
Jill Widell (Freeman)
Scot,
This is a great testiment to your friendship and decribes so well the Joe I knew. Thanks for sharing the memories.
Jill (Widell) Freeman