Joe Tappero

In 1974 my wife and I moved to Cle Elum. Across the alley we met Joe and Rose Tappero. They became great friends. They both passed before we moved to Ellensburg. Joe spoke about Dip but we never met him.

Joe is prominent on my list of mentors. As a first year teacher in 1976, I shared Joe's classroom. Joe immediately let me know that his room was my room, and then he proceeded to make sure that I had everything I needed as a rookie. Joe's generosity, interest in others, and willingness to help made him a trusted leader at KJH. For me, he became a "guide on the side." And the advice he gave was always offered without judgment and plenty of wit and wisdom. Whether it was quick hallway...

Joe was a colleague of mine for many years as a fellow teacher at Kent Junior High. He was a gentleman, a family man, a friend, and an inspiration, always finding humor despite the chaos surrounding the junior high atmosphere . No one was better with one liners than Joe Tappero. I have nothing but fond memories of him. He was truly an unforgettable human being. Rest in peace, dear, dear Joe. My condolences to Irene, the three boys he was so proud of, and his extended family.