Joseph D. "Joe" Hale

I remember Mr. Hale as a wonderful chemistry teacher at University City High School. I ended up going into a career in Chemistry and he was an inspiration. I was thinking of him and found this reference. It has been many years since his passing but I thought I would add my comments though I realize a lot late.

A teacher has the unique opportunity to influence his students. Joe Hale understood his power to change lives. Not only was he one of the best teachers I had but more importantly he gave me the confidence I needed to do well academically and have a wonderful profession in dentistry. I often think of Joe and thank him.

I had the honor and privilege of having Mr. Hale as my homeroom advisor for 3 years and chemistry teacher for 2. As a girl in a mostly male environment, Mr. Hale was always supportive, fair and encouraging. He called me his little Madame Curie and I have only the most wonderful memories of him as a teacher and human being. What a fine person! I will always think of him with joy. My sincerest condolences to his family. U. City Class of '71

Of many fond memories of U. City, some of the fondest are of Mr. Hale's chemistry class. I am very saddened by the news of his passing. Class of '70.

One of the best teachers I ever had. His humor,kindness, and inspiration changed the lives of many souls. No matter what happened before you entered his class,his smile and upbeat tone uplifted you when you walked in Joe's class. His being was a component part of that old U.City HS, as esential as Oxygen on the periodic chart. Like Maimonides he was a healer and a teacher. It is my prayer, that G-d provide comfort to his family during this time of loss. Joe during his life gave comfort and...

I am sad to hear of Mr. Hale's passing. As a member of the 1958 class at U. City High, I remember him delivering a lecture in chemistry while bringing his clasped hands from behind his back over his head and in front of him without letting go or interrupting his talk-or did I just imagine it? He was a great teacher. My condolences to his family. Simon Koski, St. Louis, MO.

The best teacher I ever had and one of the nicest people I have ever had the pleasure to know. He prepared me so well for college chemistry that it was as if I had already taken the course. I had
the opportunity to run into him during
later years in pharmacies where I was
on duty. He was always the same kind
soul and full of life and fun. He made
learning a pleasure and made a huge
impact on my life. A model for all
teachers and a great, great human being....

We were saddened to hear of the passing of Joe Hale. As a neighbor for several years, our families became great friends and shared many great times. As I have remembered these shared times the last few days, it has brought a smile to my face. We hope the knowledge of the lives Joe has touched and the memories we all have will be of comfort to all of you.

I was so saddened to hear of Mr. Hale's passing. What a loss to the Class of '59 - we will miss him greatly, especially at our 50th reunion later this year. He was a great inspiration to me, and I was looking forward to his great spirit and humor at the reunion. At our 45th reunion, I noted to him that he was still performing so lively on the dance floor. He just quipped: "Better living through chemistry!" Thousands of his students have been enriched by his teaching, wisdom, and joy.