In memory of
Coast Guard. State Trooper. Rider.
Good man. Long career. But you’d never hear him say it.
In loving memory of Joe — Coast Guard • Massachusetts State Police • Rider.
From Sandy, his wife
Joe was only 59, and none of us were ready to lose him. He passed away peacefully in his sleep — and while that may have been gentle for him, it was a shock to all of us who loved him so deeply.
Joe was truly one of a kind. He was so damn funny...he had a sense of humor like no one else — quick, clever, and perfectly timed. He made everybody laugh. And this was just one of the things that made him so very special. He loved being the funny guy and the center of attention that way but on the other hand in some ways was so private...and absolutely so humble about his contribution to our country through the US Coast Guard and to the Commonwealth through the Massachusetts State Police.
Joe lived a life of service and purpose. He was dedicated, he was patriotic, and he loved this country and the American flag. And that wasn’t just something he said — it was something he lived. He believed in doing the right thing, in standing up for others, and in being a man of integrity.
Joe earned a deep respect from those who worked alongside him. I loved hearing stories from those who worked with him and those he coached — but like I said in true Joe fashion, he was humble to his core. He never tooted his own horn — in fact, he was all about flying under the radar. So it fills my heart to hear so many people singing his praises now over this past week, because he deserves every single word.
Joe was like everybody’s big brother — always ready with advice, a listening ear, or a steady hand. And yes, most times, that person needing advice was me. I can't tell you how many ledges he talked me off of. He was my biggest supporter... my rock...my biggest cheerleader. He always believed in me even when I didn't believe in myself. I'm a better person because Joe was in my life. Joe taught me it doesn't make a damn what other people think of you...it only matters what you think of yourself.
He was my best friend and I don't know how I'm going to do life without him.
Joe lived a full life. WE lived a full life. And yes...how could I not mention Harley. Anyone who knew him knew motorcycles were his passion, his freedom, and his joy. And like our friends and I reflected this weekend we had more adventures and experiences on the bike over the past decade or so than alot of people have in a lifetime.
But as we also said...we still had so so much more we wanted to do.
There’s a hole in my heart that can never be filled, but there’s also gratitude — gratitude for the years, the adventures, and the love we shared.
Joe, thank you for being my person, my protector, my best friend, and my home. I’ll love you forever, and I’ll carry your spirit with me on every road ahead.
I love you so much hon. And I always will.
Joe served his country and community with honor and distinction. Here’s a look at his career in the U.S. Coast Guard and the Massachusetts State Police.
Favorite route
Cherohala Skyway
The Cherohala Skyway winds through the Appalachian Mountains between North Carolina and Tennessee. Long, easy curves. Big views. Forest closing in, then opening out to sky again.
Joe loved how much it felt like a boat ride on a smooth sea. Easy, curving miles where he could just relax, be with his thoughts, and enjoy the ride.
Ride playlist
A few of the songs he liked to put on when the road opened up ahead.
More roads he traveled
Tribute Ride
Joe rode through 43 states, seven short of the full 50. This ride is our way of finishing the map in his honor.
States Joe rode
43
States still to finish
7
Rides shared so far
0
Pick one of the states he never got to, make the miles, and let us know where you went. Even if a state has already been ridden in his honor, you’re welcome to add your own miles and your own story. We’ll mark it on the map and keep the ride going.
Share the moments that prove he hasn't been forgotten.
These are added by family from stories that have been sent in.
Honor His Service
If you’d like to honor Joe, these are the organizations that reflect the work he cared about most — his brothers and sisters in uniform, and the families behind them.
Veteran Community
Supporting veterans through community, reconnection, and mission — getting them out of isolation and back beside people who understand.
Law Enforcement Families
Helping support State Police members and their loved ones when life hits hard — medical crises, loss, and the quiet needs that don’t make headlines.
Coast Guard Families
Providing scholarships, relief, and support programs for Coast Guard members and their families — standing behind the people who stand the watch.
These links are offered in Joe’s honor. Give if you’re able. Share if you’re not. Either way, thank you for keeping his good work moving.