Opa has been gone for almost a year but never forgotten, not even for a second.  I've read the poem "If" many times in memory of him.  Since he passed I've moved to Florida and started a new job.  Last week I read that poem to my co-workers who seemed to be as touched by it as I was when I first heard it from him.  He is no longer living but is living on through his family and friends every time we remember him.  I love him & miss him.  He was always more than a Grandpa, he was my mentor, my counselor, and my best friend... and he still is... in spirit.

Joe always said he hated Michigan but he always came to visit anyway.  He was an awesome man whom I admired and respected.  He treated some of us like we were his kids and one especially like his grandson.  Joe will be missed by this family in Michigan.  Love the Walt Klotz family.

I knew from the first time I met Joe and Laverne 11 years ago, that Joe was a strong yet kind person. His love for Laverne, life and family was always evident in his thoughts and actions. Joe will surely be missed. My deepest sympathies to Laverne and family.

(cont.) which Grandpa kindly declined.  I will always remember Grandpa as a smart and organized man who liked to teach the life lessons that he learned along the way including, "Taxes are the name of the game." Thank you Grandpa.

Grandpa sitting in his rocking chair, talking or reading the paper. That's what I picture first when I think of him. He spoke to us often of his gang of friends that he grew up with in Chicago, with pride, of World War II, of the logic and futility of the horse races, how much he was ahead for the year and on that day. Grandpa taught me the value of good friends and how to treat everyone the same, how to organize, how to be on time and respect and talk to others. He was matter-of-fact, but caring. He liked to talk and tell stories. He approached life light-heartedly and thoughtfully. Thank you grandpa for everything you've taught me.

Grandpa was one of a kind.  He spoke often of his years working and the people he worked with and he loved his family and the time he spent with them.  Grandpa loved to meet new people and seemed to get along with anyone...including the man he shared a smoke with on/near Venice Beach in California.  During his chat with the man they were both offered a box lunch that got handed out to those who were in need

Grandpa (Opa) was an amazing man who marched to the beat of his own drum.  He may be gone but never forgotten.  As he would say "que sera sera".  I am blessed that he lived as long as he did.  I share his love of quotes and poetry.  Whenever I miss him I can read "If" by Rudyard Kipling because that poem and so many other things he did and said have helped me to become the person I am today.

Joe/Dad shaped all of our lives.  He will always be remembered.  Most importantly, he was an example in the way he never gave up on life or hope to the very end.  I will greatly miss our nightly chats. Love Cyndi, and the "favorite Russian paratrooper"

I worked for Joe from 1977 until he retired.  I still think of him often.  I think he had a lot to do with the person and the worker I am today - still employed at Markel (Shand) with 35 years of service.  He certainly understood the work ethic.  I have never known anyone else even remotely like Joe.  My deepest sorrow for your loss.

OBITUARY

Joe J. Thackaberry

6 September, 1927 – 18 October, 2011

Oehler Funeral Home

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