Thursday, December 5, 2024
I worked part-time in Aquatics at the Bethlehem YMCA for more than 15 years. Joe was a frequent presence at the pools. I was a caregiver for my baby granddaughter (now 13), she often accompanied me; she was swimming independently by the time she was two. Although she was suspicious of "strangers", especially men, she and Joe took a mutual shine to each other. She'd happily paddle right up to him and he would pick her up and make a fuss about her. He was a gift. Rest in peace, dear Joe.