Joseph C. Dissette

Joe was known, respected, and loved by every Lightning sailor in the Higgins Lake Boat Club. I think each of them must have bought at least one boat from him! Joe exemplified everything that is 'good' about sailing.

Dear Mr. Dissette's family, Joe sold me Lightning 9595 a few years back and I enjoyed dealing with him as much as I enjoyed purchasing the boat. He got a kick out of my recognizing the lines of the WWI minesweeper in the photo behind his desk and the fact that we both worked in the same industry. My thoughts are with the Dissette family and their friends.

Joe picked me to train as crew when I was 16 years old, and I had the honor of being his crew with Jeff Worden for 5 years. He taught us the finer elements of sailing, to "move like cats", about prayer before the race, and how to live life for God with zeal. Joe left a mark on my life that I appreciate whenever I sail or remember him. I loved his smile and love for others. Just as he finished every sailing regatta, he finished the ultimate race--very well!

Joe was a huge influence on my father and almost every other Lightning sailor I know, including many generations! He was a wonderful man and will be missed greatly.

Racing prams at the Bay City Yacht Club to Lightning's throughout Michigan you shared with me a love of racing sailboats I've never been able to shake. You'll be able to cover the fleet from where you are and send fair winds to those of us here on earth still looking for a lift on starboard tack heading to the windward mark with the fleet behind us.

Joe,

I'm sorry to hear about your dad. Know that he is sailing that great Lightning in the sky. Peace to you and Ellen.

Mark Edmonds
Lincoln, CA

You are in our thoughts and prayers. Joe impacted many of our lives in such great ways.

So sorry to read today the news of Joe's passing. He and his family are a good part of my childhood memories. I know he will be dearly missed. Smooth sailing Joe.