Born and raised in Vancouver, Joe never left - this city was home for all of his life. He spent his career as a clerk at BC Rail, and dance was where he really came alive. He was a dance instructor who loved folk and ballroom dancing. He could teach you the steps - and probably tell you exactly what you were doing wrong.
He was grumpy, stubborn, fiercely independent, and not always great at showing appreciation for the family and friends who cared for him. He kept a lot close to the chest, and he had a suspicious streak, sometimes worrying that people were more interested in his money than in him.
But Joe had his pleasures. He loved dancing, gardening, movies, and music. The song "Moon River" has a special place in his heart. He enjoyed all kinds of food, especially a good turkey dinner at someone else's house, where there are plenty of leftovers. Because every complicated man needs at least one uncomplicated relationship, and a good turkey dinner rarely asks to borrow money, or much else.
Joe never married - a confirmed bachelor to the end - and lived his whole life on his own terms, his own household, his own rhythm, his own company, sharp edges and all. He wasn't perfect, and pretending otherwise wouldn't honor the man he actually was.
So put on Moon River, serve some turkey, clear the dance floor, and give Joe some room.
Keep dancing, Joe. And relax - the cover charge has already been paid.
