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Joseph Touchette Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Touchette
Sponsored by Carol (Mrs. Joseph Touchette).
12-16-2006 Friends together at China Pearl
November 26, 2008
Your Loving Wife Carol
November 21, 2008
MEMORIAL SERVICE OF REMEMBRANCE AND LOVE
Recently a memorial service of remembrance was held at the First Baptist Church, 3 Winn Street in Woburn, Massachusetts in honor of Mr. Joseph Touchette, a resident of Medford for forty-five years.
Mr. Touchette passed away on October 17, 2007. He is sadly missed by his wife Carol Touchette a resident of Medford for sixty-three years.
Pastor Mary Bettencourt presided at the service along with Peggy Allen, organist who offered beautiful music. The Pastor sang a hauntingly beautiful solo of On Eagles Wings.
The program noted that Joe was a wonderful husband, companion and a person of joy in our lives. He was a loving dad, grandfather and friend. Joe was a devoted deacon at The First Baptist Church and a faithful member of the Fraternal Order of Free and Accepted Masons. Joe was instrumental in many programs here at the church and also while a Mason. Mr. Touchette earned the coveted Joseph Warren Masonic medal.
Carol lighted candles of remembrance and love. Psalm 23 was read. Scripture passages and an inspirational reading was given by Carol’s sister Dorothy Abruzzese.
Carol read a very touching reading of Heart Gifts. Memories of Joe were offered by the Pastor. The service concluded with all singing the hymn In The Garden, one of Joe’s favorites.
The Pastor offered a benediction after which we all enjoyed a buffet brunch of many different and delicious foods.
Dessert was a sheet cake picturing some milestones in what was Joe’s active life.
All my LOVE forever - "Babydoll"
October 31, 2008
Four “Paws” and Joe’s ice cream sandwich adventure
Each week when I go shopping I buy a box of ice cream sandwiches for Joe and I and a box of sandwiches for Lucky, our dog.
Some time later Joe told me to throw away the ice cream sandwiches as they had gone bad and were dry and tasted funny. Despite his telling me this he had consumed the whole sandwich.
I showed him Lucky’s sandwiches and asked “Did you eat one of these”? Joe replied “I don’t know it was dark and I just reached into the freezer and grabbed one out of the package.
Upon checking the freezer I discovered Lucky’s package had been opened and one had been removed.
I showed Joe the package and told him he had eaten one of Lucky’s doggy ice cream sandwiches. He finally realized what he had done, you should have seen the expression on his face, one of disbelief and frustration that he had consumed something meant for a dog.
When I told my family and friends they laughed heartily over the mistake. They asked has he started barking yet?
Carol Touchette
October 17, 2008
Joe
It’s been a year since my whole world fell apart, on October 17, 2007 at 12:09PM.
I LOVED YOU,
Not only for what you were,
But for what I was
When I was with you.
I LOVED YOU,
Not only for what
You had made of yourself,
But for what
You made of me.
I LOVED YOU,
For the part of me
That you brought out;
I LOVED YOU,
For putting your hand
On my heart
And passing over
All the weak, foolish things
That you couldn’t help seeing there
And for drawing out
Into the light
All the beautiful belongings
That no one else had looked
Quite far enough to see.
I LOVED YOU because you
Were helping me to make
Of the lumber of my life
Not a tavern
But a temple;
Out of the works
Of my every day
Not a reproach
But a song
LOVE FOREVER
BABYDOLL
Mary Ann Holmes
October 17, 2008
Joe,
We cannot believe that it's been a year already since you left us. When you met my sister her life started a new. She was totally happy with you and even now misses you emmensely. We miss the talks we had about birds, golf and the Masons. He was a great person to know and we will miss him dearly.
Love, Mary Ann & Brad
Diane & Harry McCue
October 13, 2008
Joe, a beautiful Memorial Service for you yesterday. Another wonderful job by Carol. Diane and I know she has a broken heart! We also know as time goes by she will slowly mend with your guidance and support. We are here for Carol and she knows when to call or give us a shout. So, please know she is safe and has many , many friends.
God Bless!
Marcia MacLeod
October 12, 2008
We didn't know Joe well, but what little we knew of him we liked very much. He loved our friend Carol, who we love, and that was the important thing. One day the year before they were married, he and Carol drove to Connecticut for a day's visit. I remember his talking about how much he had enjoyed his vacations in Canada. He spoke of how one day he had found a place in the grass that was still warm from where a deer had been sleeping, and told of the way the children's faces had lit up when he had them put their hands on the warm spot. I remember thinking, "What a nice, kind, gentle man--I'm so happy that he and Carol are going to share their lives!"
It's really difficult to know what to say in the face of such a loss. Somebody wise once said that time is the only comforter...but also there is the sure and certain knowledge that Joe is up there somewhere in that better place, smiling benignly and waiting patiently to be reunited with all those he loved.
May the good Lord bless and keep you, Carol.
Love,
Marcia
Mary Ann Holmes
October 3, 2008
Those we love remain with us for love itself lives on and cherished memories never fade because a loved one's gone. For everyday that passes something beautiful remains- Memories.
Love Mary Ann Holmes
Carol Touchette
September 17, 2008
Honey,
It's the eleventh month and I still horribly missed you.
The following is:
ONE OF JOE’S PROUDEST MOMENTS IN HIS LIFE
The following was written on 3/6/06 to the Grand Master of Masons in Massachusetts,
Requesting his considerations for awarding the Joseph Warren Medal to Joe.
The Joseph Warren Medal is the second highest honor one can receive in freemasonry.
To receive this honor a mason must take part in humanitarian programs and be aware of community needs.
Wor. Joe is a quiet unassuming Mason who seems to be every place you go. He is the Mason you go to when you need something done. Wor. Joe sounds like most good Masons until you look at his deep commitment and involvement in the craft and the many bodies he belongs to and more important he takes an active part in. To list all the Blue Lodges, Chapters, Councils, Eastern Star Chapters, Scottish Rite, and Shrine clubs, degree teams, and Blue Lodge clubs would be time consuming to read, so I will try to condense his many Masonic activities.
Wor. Joe was Raised in King Solomon’s Lodge, Somerville, MA. in 1976 and never looked back. During his thirty Masonic years he has affiliated with seven additional Blue Lodges, He is a Past Master of John Abbot Lodge, Arlington and The Massachusetts Lodge, Boston.
Wor. Joe is currently the Secretary of The Massachusetts Lodge. One of his many accomplishments was the outstanding Job he did at The Massachusetts Lodge while he was the Education Officer. Our Candidates suddenly went from strangers to active participants in the lodge. This is really important as it keeps newer members not only active, but waiting for an opportunity to become an officer. Our lodge is no longer appointing officers to fill a slot, but selecting the members we feel will be good Masters. This has made our lodge energetic and vibrant, which you may have noticed on your visit last year.
Joe has been; four times a High Priest of three Councils and once Illustrious Master, twice Worthy Patron in the Eastern Star. A member of the Scottish Rite, the Aleppo Temple Minutemen unit, as well as the Commandry, and many Masonic clubs and degree teams. He is co-chairman of the Grand Master’s Campaign for Masonic Charities, and a member of the Masonic Secretaries Association of Massachusetts. Wor. Joe has been supportive of youth programs such as Demolay, Boy Scouts, Little League baseball, and basketball. He is a devoted communicant of The First Baptist Church of Woburn, and has been nominated as a deacon of the Church.
On 9/16/06 Joe received the Joseph Warren Medal and boy was he surprised.
Communicated by Carol Touchette wife of Joe
Carol Touchette
July 17, 2008
Honey, it been 9 months and your still horribly missed from your loving home
HEART GIFTS
It’s not the things that can be bought
That are life’s richest treasure.
It’s just the little “heart gifts”
That money CANNOT measure…
A cheerful smile, a friendly word,
A patient nod
Are priceless little treasures
From the storehouse of our GOD…
They are the things that can’t be bought
With silver or with gold
For thoughtfulness and kindness
And love are never sold…
They are the priceless things in life
For which no one can pay.
And the giver finds rich understanding
In GIVING THEM AWAY.
OUR BELOVED JOE FOLLOWED ALL OF THE ABOVE IN HIS LIFE
Rest in peace knowing you left the world a far better place.
Love YOU Always
5/19/2004 my 60th birthday Party given by Joe with my best friends & Joe
June 23, 2008
12/25/2003 1st Christmas living together, playboy was from the 3m's
June 23, 2008
9/6/2003 Seafood festival at Hampton Beach with Susie & Joe DiZio
June 23, 2008
8/2003 Joe enjoying the back yard he loved
June 23, 2008
7/3/2003 Super 8 Motel, Tilton, New Hampshire
June 23, 2008
5/21/2003 My Retirement Party given by the 325 Club
June 23, 2008
5/10/2003 Mario and Alyson's Wedding
June 23, 2008
2/14/2003 Wren's Nest, New Hampshire
June 23, 2008
12/24/2002 Our 1st Christmas Eve together spent at Marie's
June 23, 2008
12/15/2002 Joe's 1999 Dodge Darango & Lucky - 8 yrs. old
June 23, 2008
11/24/2002 Horn Pond hanging pine cones with peanut butter & bird seed
June 23, 2008
7/20/2002 First place Joe took me with his family & friends
June 23, 2008
10/11/2007 Last picture of Joe (Council fo Social Concern) Joe, Pastor Mary, Susie, Dan & others
June 23, 2008
9/15/2007 Last picture of Joe & I together at The Mass. Lodge Installation
June 23, 2008
12/9/2006 Last Thompson's Family Reunion that Joe attended
June 23, 2008
5/2006 Maverick, Mario & Moon, 12/02 Marshall & 2007 Lucky
June 23, 2008
Joe in a VERY proud moment _Joseph Warren Medal with Pastor Mary
June 23, 2008
08/7/2006 Our 1st Anniversary - Restaurant 42 - Cape Cod
June 23, 2008
2/2006 Joe drew this while attending church service
June 17, 2008
Joe loved to dress up at The Cat & the Hat
June 17, 2008
leaving our Wedding as Mr. & Mrs. Uncle Sam
June 17, 2008
Masonic Friends 08072005 Tom, Nick, David, Frank, Arthur, Joe and Don
June 17, 2008
8/7/2005 Our Wedding Picture
June 17, 2008
Front page of our Wedding Program
June 17, 2008
Our Wedding Invitation for 8/7/2005
June 17, 2008
1st Baptist Church where we took our wedding vows
June 13, 2008
Joe & Carol joining the 1st Baptist Church of Woburn
June 13, 2008
02-12-2005 Joe's 70th Birthday Party at Sheraton Lexington Hotel
June 13, 2008
02-12-2005 Muffin & Joe at Joe's 70th Birthday
June 13, 2008
Carol Touchette
June 2, 2008
Joe, it’s been almost eight long months, the following is how I feel.
I do not need a special day
To bring you to my mind
The days I do not think of you
Are very hard to find
Each morning when I wake,
I know that you are gone.
And no one knows the heart aches
As I try to carry on
My hearts still ache with sadness
And secret tears still flow
What it meant to lose you
My thoughts are always with you
Your place no one can fill
In life I loved you dearly
In death I love you still
There will always be heartache
And often a silent tear
But always a precious memory
Of the days when you were here
If tears could make a staircase
And heartaches make a lane
I’d walk the path to heaven
And bring you home again
I hold you close within my heart;
And there you will remain forever
To walk with me throughout my life
Until we meet again
Our family chain is broken now
And nothing seems the same
But as GOD calls us one by one,
The chain will link again
Love from your loving wife, Lucky, Maverick, Mario & Marshall
Albert and Margaret Le Vasseur
May 29, 2008
Dear Carol: We know that Joe loved to be in the Masons and doing things for others, like collecting books for children, and collecting can tops for the Shriners Burnt Hospital. He loved to go to all the different activities the Masons had, and most of all he loved to make people laugh. We know you miss Joe, but remember the five good years you had together. He is never far away from you, because you hold hold him Dear to your heart, and we are sure that he is keeping an eye on you from above. He is gone from your sight, but He is never out of your memory. He is gone from your hearing, but He is never out of your heart. He is gone from your touch, but His present is there and the love He gave you will never leave. With Sincere Sympathy Love Al and Magaret Le Vasseur
10/18/2004 Steve & Helen Gogolos
May 23, 2008
9/17/2004 Our engagement Picture in our living room
May 23, 2008
8/21/2003 Joe's 1st time on a horse (William) at age 68
May 23, 2008
8/20/2003 Joe playing golf at Mt. Washington Hotel
May 20, 2008
Jan 2003 Joe & Lillian at the V.A. Christmas Party
May 20, 2008
11/9/2002 Our 1st official date- Commissioning of USS Preble DDG 88 & a 7th Annual Charity Black Tie Ball at Lombardo's in Randolph
May 20, 2008
9/28/2002 Joe became Master of The Massachusetts Lodge
May 20, 2008
10/5/2001 Joe's Golf Buddies - Joe, Sheldon, Jack & Willis
May 20, 2008
10/6/2001 Steve, Helen, Lillian & Joe
May 20, 2008
Lillian & Joe's dog "Lucky" 3yrs old 2/2000
May 20, 2008
Joe's Landscaping Trailer
May 20, 2008
1988 Joe's brothers & Sisters, Charlie, Joe, Peter, Frank, Jimmy, JoAnne, Esther & Millie
May 19, 2008
Joe's Mother, Lillian, the twins Connie & John
May 19, 2008
Mary Ann Holmes
May 15, 2008
Hi Joe,
I just had to talk to you about the beautiful Scarlet Tanager that I saw on Monday the 12th of May 2008 in my Maple Tree he was absolutely beautiful. The first person I thought of was you because we enjoyed talking about different birds. I miss doing this with you.
Love, Mary Ann
Carol (Babydoll) Touchette
May 3, 2008
Hi Honey,
It's been six months I am writing the following to you:
I COUNT YOU AMONG MY BLESSINGS
I count among my blessings every lovely sight I see that you pointed out to me.
Every memory that I cherished with YOU
Every dream that beckons me because of you.
I count among my blessings every friend I come to meet, as you did.
Every lesson that I learned from you.
Every task that I complete because of your patiences teaching me.
AND I count among my blessings every chance that comes my way to bring a little gladness into someone else's day, as you were committed to accomplish while you were on this earth.
Love and Kisses that I miss dearly,
Carol Touchette
April 16, 2008
LIFE IS IMPORTANT
One day a husband dies
And on that clear, Autumn day 10/17/2007 the wife was struck with
the pain of learning that sometimes there isn't any more.
NO MORE HUGS,
NO more moments to celebrate together,
NO more phone calls just to chat,
NO more "just one minute"
SOMETIMES, what we care about the most goes away.
never to return before we can say good-bye,
Say "I Love You"
So while we have it..it's best we love it..
And care for it and fix it when it's broken and take good care of it when it's sick.
THIS IS TRUE FOR MARRIAGE, FRIENDSHIPS, CHILDREN AND PETS
We keep them because they are worth it,
BECAUSE we CHERISH them!!!!
There are just some things that make us happy, No matter what.
LIFE IS IMPORTANT,
and so are the people we know
And so, we keep them close!
Thank You JOE, very much for being a very special part of MY Life.
Love and Kisses for ever
Carol Touchette
March 31, 2008
JOE'S EULOGY as written and read by Dorothy Abruzzese on October 22, 2007
May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in thy sight oh god:
I was especially proud when Carol and Joe made the commitment to join the First Baptist Church. Carol served for a while as clerk of the church and Joe took on the responsibility of becoming a deacon, a post he served well. He was always willing to go the extra mile and perform any task asked of him. Joe loved having fun. One day one of our lady deacons brought some pocketbooks to church and let us all have our choice. I chose a black purse and after the meeting Joe came up to me and whined like a baby saying he didn’t get a bag, where was his bag? I said to my self okay I’ll get you a bag. I went to the thrift shoppe here at the church and purchased a brown workmen’s pouch bag. I placed a sign on the bag saying “”Deacon Joseph’s Pocket Book”. I packed it up with women’s items including lipstick, a very very large oversize bra and purple panty hose. We have in our church a resident champion scrabble player and at one of our regular game nights, Joe managed to unseat our champion. Needless to say she was shocked and a little upset that her championship had been challenged. She was planning on contributing something to our bag something in the nature of “that will teach you to beat me” it was all in fun and we relished the moment. The bag would be placed under the Christmas tree. Carol said he would have absolutely loved his special surprise and she could imagine his smile and laughter filling the room.
Every Christmas season Joe and Carol would help set up a Christmas village filling a whole 9x12 foot room. He loved unpacking the small houses. At last count there were 165 houses, hundreds of accessories and fake snow to cover it all. He would stand back and admire the work we had all done together.
Joe loved family and being part of every celebration and special occasions. Holidays spent with son John and daughter Connie and his two grandchildren and the rest of his very large family. I remember the day he very proudly related to me a story of Jessica and locks of love. Jessica had decided to have 10” of her long flowing hair cut off and donated to “locks of Love”. This would give children with cancer a chance to have hair that was originally lost to the disease. Joe told me that this was the second time she had donated her hair. Joe enjoyed going to the soccer field and watching young Collin kicking the ball around. Collin and Joe would lie on the bed watching cartoons together. He loved ice cream and Hershey bars and delighted in treating his grandchildren. Each year he would treat them to the Shriner’s Circus. We all had a ride on an elephant.
Joe and Carol enjoyed many activities together. They were the lucky ones to receive an invitation to the commissioning of the USS PREBLE, a nuclear submarine, intrepid patriot at the Black Falcon Pier in East Boston where they rubbed elbows with Ted Kennedy and John Kerry. They caroled every year at Winchester Hospital with family. They enjoyed boating on Lake Blaisdell every summer and visiting the Hampton Beach Seafood Festival. Picture Joe at a Pirate of the Caribbean party holding a cutlass, wearing a pirate hat and a patch over one eye. They especially liked visiting Joe’s brother Charlie and his wife Laurie on the Cape.
Each year Joe has helped raise money for Lions eye research by riding on the Santa Claus float at the end of the Halloween Parade.
Golf was Joe’s game and he loved hitting the links with Willis, Jack, Sheldon, Mo and Arty. He loved competing and winning and his laugh could be heard around the Cape Cod Country Club when he received $25.00 for his birdie on the fifthteenth hole. Joe one time was hitting the ball from 50 yards out from the pin, the ball hit the pin and dropped into the hole. The crowd from surrounding tees erupted into spontaneous applause. He was a good golfer but how do you figure this one out. Joe was great on the regulation golf course but when it came to miniature golf he just could not win. It is fitting that he was out with his golf friends and Joe had just teed off yelling look at that shot. Joe was welcomed into the Lords loving arms playing the game he really loved.
Joe and Carol were married on August 7th, 2005. Carol declared this was going to be the wedding of all weddings. Usually when Carol makes such a statement you can be sure it will happen. I had never seen Carol look more beautiful or happier. We came to the decision of the wedding party and at first it was a total of four attendants. Carol and Joe together decided they could not hurt anyone’s feelings and the result was a total of 21 people in the wedding party. When we lined up for pictures someone remarked we have enough people to form 2 baseball teams and some left over. They surprised us all at the end of the reception by coming out dressed as Mr. and Mrs. Uncle Sam with God Bless America playing in the background. Small American flags were given to all the guests to wave as Mr. And Mrs. Uncle Sam came out. They had told me they did not want to be like other couples. It was wonderfully heartwarming, for Carol had waited so long to have a partner in her life.
Carol wanted to go horseback riding. Joe said okay with some apprehension. This was a first for Joe at age 68 and although he said he enjoyed the experience his back side was telling another story.
Each year we would all go to the Masonic Picnic day up to Canobie Lake. Joe took me and our sister Maryann over to what he said we could not miss, the Boston Tea Party Ride. When we saw that this Tea Party Ride had a very large boat that came down a very high incline into a pool of water we said no way. Just Joe having fun.
Joe then said well come stand over here for the best view. My sister and I did what we were told and the boat came down and soaked us to the amusement of the people standing around.
We thought we would pay him back by embarrassing him at Carol’s 60th birthday celebration. We gifted him with a very bright red pair of ladies undergarments. He laughed and held them up for all to see. I guess in this case he had the last laugh.
Recently I had eye surgery and was told that I could not bend from the waist for a week. As a general rule I would clean my street of litter which now I could not accomplish I called Joe and asked could you make me an idiot stick? Idiot stick is a pole with a sharp nail on the end to pick up paper. Thirty minutes later I had my stick and a loving memory of Joe. I am sorry Carol for the loss of your broom.
Joes second love was freemasonry his first love being Carol. Carol was told that he always spoke of her and how much he loved being her husband.
Joe had been four times a High Priest of three councils and once illustrious master. He was twice Worthy Patron of the Eastern Star. He was a member of the Scottish Rite, the Aleppo Temple Minutemen unit as well as the Commandry and many Masonic clubs and degree teams. Joe was always very supportive of youth programs such as Demolay, Boy Scouts, Little league baseball and basketball. His awards have been many among, them the prestigious Joseph Warren Medal and the Tenets award in recognition of distinguished service to his fellow men, brotherly love, relief and truth.
At the time of his passing he was Secretary of the Massachusetts Lodge as well as District Awareness Officer, First Masonic District.
Joe, you will certainly be missed by everyone. Carol and family take comfort in knowing that your loved one has been guided gently home.
And may you now all have grace and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our savior.
Pam D'Amato
March 30, 2008
Anytime you saw Joe, he always had a big smile and a hug and a kiss for you. He always made time to say hello and ask how you were doing. But my favorite thing about Joe was...how happy he made Carol. Love you both forever!!
February 14, 1935 October 17, 2007
March 27, 2008
Joseph, Joe, JT
Your gentle face and patient smile
With sadness we recall
You had a kindly word for each
And died beloved by all.
The voice is mute and
Stilled the heart
That loved us well and true
Ah, bitter was the trial to part
From one so good as you
Your are not forgotten, loved one.
Nor will you ever be,
As long as life and memory last,
We will remember thee
We miss you now our hearts are sore,
As time goes by we miss you more,
Your loving smile, your gentle face,
No one can take your vacant place
Love from Family and Friends you met along life's journey
2/14/2004 Teddy Bear from my Honey
Carol Touchette
March 15, 2008
Hi Honey,
This entry was originally written on 2/14/2008 BUT I didn't have the picture then.
Valentines Day, your 73rd birthday. It has been four months since you left your friends on earth.
I remember 2004 and receiving a musical teddy bear (picture enclosed) from you that played "Cherish" which I believe were your true feelings for me.
And I DID and I DO "Cherish" you and every moment we had together.
Love Baby Doll
Mary Ann Holmes
March 15, 2008
We think of you in silence and make no outward show. But what it meant to lose you. No one will ever know. You wished no one farewell nor even said goodbye. You were gone before we knew it and only God knows why. A golden heart stopped beating. With tender hands at rest, that God broke our hearts proves He only takes the best. To some you may be forgotten. To others a part of the past. But to those of us who loved you dearly, Your memories will always last.
Marie Croke
March 14, 2008
Carol you and Joe had five great years. You can never be separated from those you love, because God leaves us with memories to hold and love that doesn't pass away.
Love
MaryAnn Keefe
February 21, 2008
Sunday I pulled out my name tag to put it on to wear during the service and I immediatly thought of Joe. I remember the Sunday I was in church, and that name tag was getting on my nerves cause I couldn't get the name to stay straight forward and every body kept fixing it for me and a couple of new people when I welcomed them said thank you....and turned my name tag around to see my name. And Joe, God love him said what's the matter MaryAnn and I said this name tag I'm gonna take it home and figure out how I can make it stay put and where everyone can see it. I took it off the ribbon to fix it but was struggling with it. And Joe being the debonair Knight in Shining Armor said here let me have it I'll fix it for you, and God love him he did and I didn't have to take it home. Therefore eveytime I look at it I think of Joe and how much he meant to all of us. And if we miss him that much you are even missing him more and I feel your pain. God be with you and watch over you Carol. Love and Peace, and comfort. P.S. God and Joe are smiling down on you and watching over you. Love
Frank & MaryNed Fotis
February 18, 2008
A MODEL OF A MAN
JOE TOUCHETTE provided a model for all of us.
Welcoming, Friendly, Honest, Sincere, Diligent in his work. He embodied characteristics we should all aspire to.
His smile and husky voice punctuated all occasions.
He lightened every social affair and meeting by his presence.
His too early departure from this life has left a gaping hole for all of us left behind. But in the long run, we must think of Joe. How well rewarded he was for his good life-with his ever-loving and supportive Carol by his side. He sailed through the last few years with a smile on his face. SHE was his FINAL GIFT FROM GOD, bringing laughter and joy into his life and energy, commitment and endless hours of tech support to his role as Secretary of The Massachusetts Lodge.
God surely smiled upon him in his final days---Monday night at The Massachusetts Lodge, Tuesday at Rabboni...and his final hours with friends on the golf course on a magnificent New England autumn morning. With no pain or suffering or premonition, he left us in a burst of brilliance, with the sun shining upon him.
We suffer at our loss, but with all the wonderful memories of Joe and his welcoming presence, we will eventually smile again as WE REMEMBER THIS REMARKABLE MAN.
Pam Baker and family
January 22, 2008
Dear Carol,
You and Joe are the most loving couple I have ever known. Although you had a short term of years on this earth together, you two had the most wonderful marriage and companionship. Your love for each other is infinite. It gives me great pleasure to think of you and all of the good times. Joe is in Heaven smiling down on you wearing his "Uncle Sam" outfit. God Bless You!
Love,
Pam
9/28/2002 Joe became Master of the Ma. Lodge
Carol (Munchkin) Touchette
January 21, 2008
Honey, J.T. Joe
It's been three months of loneliness since you left me to be at the right hand of the Father and to be with Jesus.
I've been trying to live up to your attributes, but it's not easy living up to a man who tried to emulate someone like Jesus.
Your love, hugs, kisses, and those blue steel eyes boring through me and that famous smile that everyone has commented about. All of these are very much greatly missed.
You did light up my life completely.
We had five wonderful, fun, loving years and I enjoyed every minute of it, with you.
You meant the world to me and I pray I made you as happy as you made me, for the last five years together.
I count my blessings every day for every minute I had with you.
Love you with all my heart and soul for eternity, Munchkin
"Muffin" Hester
January 11, 2008
Joe was recommended to us by a fellow "yard bird" (To quote my late husband), and over the years we all became well acquainted. Some of his family and friends occasionally came to work with him, and Joe soon got to know our four sons who were always pleased to see him on a Saturday. What he did they didn't have to do!
Joe became a fan of my chocolate chip cookies which, of course, endeared him to me, and we had many pleasant chats during mid-morning snacks.
At some point we discovered another common thread. I know his sister Millie, through our both volunteering at Emerson Hospital in Concord.
When Carol phoned me about Joe's death, I was both shocked and saddened. We had stayed in touch in spite of his abandoning our yard for his and the golf course. He was a very kind person and I shall always miss him.
Love
Frank Touchette
November 12, 2007
My brother Joe was a lifeguard in his young days at Goldstar Mothers pool in Cambridge and I asked him to teach me to swim, his way of doing this was to take me out to the end of the diving board and push me off into the deep end when I emerged to the top he told me to keep on swimming. How typical. Thank you Joe for all the childhood memories.
With love your brother Frank
Bill Holmes
November 5, 2007
Joe will be missed by many he had many friends and for good reasons. He was always happy and shared that with all around him. What I will miss most is how he made my Aunt Carol feel she is one of the most important persons in my life. My prayers to his family and friends he was and is a great person.
Helen Gogolos
November 1, 2007
Dear Joe,
Remember the night you and Steve were in Woburn practicing for a play with Paul Gleason? You didn't even know Steve. Steve asked if anyone lived in Medford because he was looking for a ride home. You drove him home not knowing at the time that we lived minutes apart from each other. This was the beginning of a wonderful friendship. Lillian, Steve you and me travelled to all the different lodges. Steve got you afiliated with The MA. Lodge where you both built a stronger and dedicated friendship.
Joe, you were devastated after Lillian's death as we all were, but soon after that another beautiful friendship came in to play. Carol later became your wife and the four of us once again travelled and socialized together. I will always remember how thoughtful and considerate you were, always being attentive to Steve when he was in your company. Carol and you were such good friends.
It was a very sad day for me when your life ended so abruptly and you left Carol, family and friends. With you gone I feel my connection to the Masons is gone.
Joe, you will always be remembered with love.
Good-bye my dear friend until we meet again.
Love you, Helen
Jay Graves
October 30, 2007
Carol and Family, my thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May our memories of Joe bring comfort to us all.
Nick Zallas
October 28, 2007
Joe: It has been an honor and a privilege to have met a Brother like you. I'm sure we'll meet again.
Rena Donovan
October 27, 2007
I remember Joe and his way of making us all feel like winners. All of us Joe,Carol,Dotty, and my self went mini golfing and when the game was over he pronounced Carol the winner. Well since he was the scorekeeper and naturally favored Carol I wondered??. Any way, then he told us we RUNNER UP's had the same score. In other words, none of us were losers and that made me feel better. May he rest in piece for he will be missed for his sense of fair play and diplomacy. Rena
Alyson, Mario, Sean and Harley Abruzzese
October 26, 2007
Dear Aunt Carol,
I was once told, after loosing my grandmother, that every time I step outside and the sun shines upon me warming my shoulders, it's her giving me a hug. That has helped me get through some difficult times. Although you may not see him, he is still with you, hugging you everyday. We are so sorry for your loss. We know he meant the world to you. Love, Alyson, Mario, Sean and Harley
Glenn Holmes
October 24, 2007
Aunt Carol,
I always knew you were happy with what God had given you, but when Joseph came into your life I saw you laugh like you've never laughed, smile like you've never smiled, love like you’ve never loved, and truly appreciate life for what it is. I hope that one day I can be as lucky as you in finding someone to love and to love me back. I am deeply sorry for your loss.
Love,
Glenn
David F. Howard
October 24, 2007
I remember when I met Joe. We were District officers together for two years. We all had a great two years with RW Steve J. Gogolos. Over time we became very close and I will miss him.EVERYBODY WILL.
Vanessa Brederson
October 24, 2007
My thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Earl Orkie Thompson
October 23, 2007
Dear Carol: I was always glad to go to breakfast with you and Joe. He could always find a way to make us laugh. Joe showed all of us a great time at Canobe Lake Park the last two years.We all looked forward to Joe's newsletter about the Church. Joe signed with " Thank You for being my friend"
He was my good friend and will be missed by all.
Mary Ann Holmes
October 23, 2007
To My Sister Carol,
I didn't get to know Joe real well. But what I feel is he was very good for you and to you and a light went out when he died. I will miss his great smile and my two kisses and hug he always gave me when we saw each other. I will miss talking about the birds he saw in your yard or I would call him and tell him about a bird I had seen in our yard. We have lost someone very special. Love Always Mary Ann
Merri Carlson
October 23, 2007
Auntie Carol:
Joe brought you so much happiness, and for that I am forever grateful to God for bringing him into your life. I am deeply sorry for your loss.
Love, Merri
Susie Abruzzese
October 23, 2007
I hope you find your Square and Compass in HEAVEN. We shall all miss your fun loving personality. I have your "Bag" ready for you. I am just sorry we could not see you receive it at our family gathering at Christmas. Love Susie
Sheldon Powers
October 23, 2007
J T was a great friend. His attitude was always positive. I remember so many times being with him when he would
smile after a bad golf shot. He looked at the good side, never the bad. He was excited to be living. Everything was a
wonderful challenge.
J T was a very generous man. Many times, after the golf, he would be the first to the bar, not to by a drink for himself,
because he never drank in those times, it was to buy for his friends. He was just always happy, and giving.
Joe was a busy guy. With his Masons and his Church, he had little time for golf these days. Maybe he should have
played more. Who knows? But he lived his life well; he was doing what he wanted to do. How can you do it better?
We're all going to miss Joe; he was great.
Sheldon
Brian Kelley
October 23, 2007
What an outstanding fellow. This earth will be a sadder place with out him.
I was able to use his guidence in my early Masonic years.
Craig Pina
October 23, 2007
Joe was a man with great enthusiasm and energy. Having broken bread with him on a number of occasions, I will always appreciate that I had the honor of knowing him. Joe will continue to serve as a role model to those who knew him. He will be sorely missed.
David Holland
October 23, 2007
I had the privelege of sitting across the dinner table from Brother Joe at a Lodge meeting earlier this month and will always remember that evening. I will miss this gentle, warm and friendly man and the smile he always had when greeting you. Your family and our masonic family will miss him. My wife Terry and I offer our deepest symathies.
Jack & Chris Bonasera
October 22, 2007
Carol, We are so saddened to hear of Joe's passing. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you. You both deserved so many more years of happiness together.
Mary Ann & Brad Holmes
October 22, 2007
Carol,
Joe was the light of your life and we are so glad that you had this time with him. We wish it could have been much much longer. We will always remember Joe and feel very fortunate to have known him. Your grief is shared by many.
Love, Mary Ann & Brad
Barbie O'Hearn
October 22, 2007
John, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your Father. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Robert Paquet
October 21, 2007
Joe was my first cousin and the time we ( Joe, his brother Frankie, and myself) spent together was always among the best of our childhood memories. He was the only person I ever knew that broke three windows in one day ( accidentally of course with a baseball, a rock, and a scaled shingle) He always had the best smile of anyone I ever knew.
Paula (Plett)DiMattio
October 21, 2007
Joe&Jerry&Connie&JT& All the grandkids & Carol So Sorry for the loss of your Dad,(Grandfather, Husband&Uncle) Sending you all my deepest sympathies. My fondest memories include him growing up in the midst of all my Touchette aunts& uncles. Sunday dinners with Nana& Grandpa Touchette & cramming all of us into thier kitchen big and small.Your Dad like your other aunts & uncles always there with a smile and a hug. he reminded me of Grandpa Touchette with his soft spoken voice.Hang on to all of the good memories, they will help to ease the tremndous loss you feel and know that we are all here for you if and when you need us.
Paula
Harry & Diane McCue
October 21, 2007
We are saddened by the passing of Joe. Just a week ago we said hello to Joe and carol at the Medford Veterans Memorial Service. It was a beautiful day and as usual, Joe brightened the day with his smile. He will be missed by many. Carol, we are here for you and please don't hesitate to call. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the Touchette family. The McCue Family
Christine Trudeau (Touchette)
October 20, 2007
Joe,Jerry,Connie,John,Gerard,Danny,JoeIII,Kristin,Tanya, and Carol,
Please except my deepest sympathy for the loss of your Dad...Grampa... and Husband,
He will always be by your side, looking over your shoulder if you keep your memories of him close to your heart.
The Rev. Mary F. Bettencourt
October 20, 2007
Carol, I do not know how we will all live without Joe's presence in our church family. Know that he is already greatly missed. Your church family is here for you in any way that you need. Much love and blessings to you and all of your's and Joe's family.
The Reverend Mary F. Bettencourt, Pastor
Carol
October 20, 2007
My deepest sympathy go out to all the Touchettes. I understand the pain you all must be going through at this time. You are ALL in my prayers! Carol McGonagle (Joe's sister and sister-in-law of Evelyn, Lillian's sister.
Malcolm King
October 20, 2007
I had a nice discussion with Joe tuesday night about his family at lodge during dinner. We were complimenting him about being the best dressed guy in the room. He was a good and solid man who loved his friends and family. My wife Maryann and I express our deepest condolences.
Jeffrey Lewis
October 20, 2007
Joe was a close friend of my late father, and was a great comfort to me and family during the recent loss of our brother, both Masons. I knew him through FBC Woburn, he was a thoughtful, caring man and he will be missed terribly. On behalf of myself and my family, our deepest regrets. God Bless.
Carol Touchette
October 19, 2007
My Love for you will never fail. You were my life and my world. My heart is broken into several pieces and I believe it will never be completely healed until I see you again in Heaven. Your smile, laughter, and your face that lit up everyone near you were the best any one could have asked for.
May God take care of you and may you help him care for others as you helped numerous people down here with your kindness, helpfulness, and your forgiven nature to anyone that wronged you.
We miss you very much. Love always Lucky, Mario, Marshall, Maverick and Moon.
Love and Kisses for ever.
Baby Doll/ Munchkin, your wife, Carol
Steve and Diane Paige
October 19, 2007
To JT and the rest of the touchette family,
my wife and I offer you our deepest sympathy and condolences in your time of loss. Always try your hardest to look and reflect upon the happy times that was shared between your father and yourselves. As long as he remains in your hearts and your thoughts , he will always remain alive within your life.
If my wife and I can help in ANYWAY at all please feel free to call upon us.
Harry & Diane McCue
October 19, 2007
Into your hands, O Lord,
we humbly entrust our brothers and sisters.
In this life you embraced them with your tender love;
deliver them now from every evil
and bid them enter eternal rest.
The old order has passed away:
welcome them then into paradise,
where there will be no sorrow, now weeping nor pain,
but the fullness of peace and joy
with your Son and the Holy Spirit
for ever and ever. Joe you will be greatly missed! We only wish we had an opportunity to say goodbye! The McCue Family
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