Joel B. Lench MD, Capt. (Ret) USN

Miss you buddy

I´m so sorry for your loss. Even though it´s been a year I am sure he is still missed. This obituary is a true and beautifully written description of him and his life.

My deepest condolences for the kindest neighbor while living in Tierrasanta. Jole and I would watch Sunday football and share some conversation. We would always talk when he walked the loop when I would work on something in my garage. What a blessed memory of a one of kind man.

Joel was so kind. He loved people. He was an amazing story teller--I loved having lunch with him when we worked together. I learned so much from him. What a loss for all of us

This was from when Joel went to work on one of Carter's Habitat for Humanity projects. Carter smashed his thumb with a hammer and went to see Joel who was in the doctor in the infirmary. They kibbitzed a bit. Joel told Carter that he had been in the Navy.

Carter said, "I was in the Navy, too. I was a Commander. What rank were you?"

When Joel replied that he ended up a Captain, Carter said,
"Oh, you outranked me!".

Joel replied, "Ah, Mr. President, don't...

Joel was a real-life superhero.

Joel was my godfather and one of my favorite people in the world. He was Papa Americano to my wife and her down the aisle to me. He was Papa Joel to our son, Lex, who saw him as his grandfather. The world is a lesser place since his passing. We miss him dearly and will always cherish the memories. We love you forever, Joel. (photo circa 1978; I'm on the left; Dad's best friend is in the middle; my brother, Joel is on the right)

I am so very sorry. The world has lost a wonderful human being. I will remember all that he taught me and I am grateful that he was in my life.

Joel made me love the Navy and he is sorely missed
"Fair winds and smooth Sailing"