For the past decade it has been difficult see Joe without also seeing the illnesses that so profoundly shaped his later years. Parkinsons disease, along with other health challenges, slowly and at times rapidly took away much of what he once enjoyed. His sharp knowledgeable mind gradually faded into dementia, a loss of which he was painfully aware. This awareness often brought deep frustration particularly as speaking clearly and expressing his thoughts became increasing difficult in recent months.
The past six months were especially challenging. Joe survived a critical life-threatening medical event in October, one he was fortunate to overcome, though it took a significant toll on his strength and quality of life. Being unable to eat “real” food was a particular source of frustration for him, especially for someone who so greatly appreciated good food and the joy of enjoying a shared meal.
Joe was far more than his illness and it’s important to remember the full and accomplished life that he lived before they took a hold of him.
In the 1970s, Joe spent much of his formative years in Roosendaal, Netherlands studying for the catholic priesthood. As he came to understand his sexuality, he chose a different path and turned his calling towards nursing. He went onto have a successful and meaningful nursing career, working at the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. In the 80s, he decided to become a midwife and was one of the very few male midwives working in Scotland at this time. In the late 80s he took up a senior nursing position with British Aerospace in Dhahran Saudia Arabia. During his time in Saudia Arbia, the Gulf war happened. Scary times indeed, Joe was a recipient of a Gulf War medal, supporting the war through his position with BAE.
In the early 1990s on returning from Dhahran, Joe accepted a research position that ultimately led to his PhD. He was so proud and consider this one of his greatest achievements. His academic career was marked by numerous publications and professional recognition, reflecting both his intellect and dedication to his field.
In 2003 Joe made the move to Canada. After several years working at the University of Alberta, his health challenges began to increasingly affect his daily life, marking the beginning of a new and difficult next chapter.
Despite everything there were days when his sense of humor would shine through and his naughty cheeky laugh would make it out again.
Joe’s life was one of intellect, service, resilience, and complexity. Though illness altered his final years, it does not define the man he was, nor dimmish the many contributions he made or the lives he touched.
Joe you were loved!