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Joe Michaels Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Joe Michaels
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Linda Cushma
October 28, 2024
Much love and peace to Mr. Joe & loved ones,
Lawrence & Linda Cushma, mini students
Linda & Lawrency Cushma
October 28, 2022
Love from Linda & Lawrence Cushma, Mr. Joe & Family.
Linda & Larry Cushma
October 30, 2021
Beautiful memories, Mr Joe, from your former tiny students, Linda & Larry. Much love to you & family
Linda Cushma
November 1, 2020
Our Love to Mr. Joe and Loved Ones, Linda & Lawrence Cushma
Linda & Lawrence Cushma
January 19, 2019
Hello, I was writing a bit of a bio for myself and had a beautiful memory of Joe, Mr. Michaels. My Brother, Lawrence, and I used to dance with Mr. Joe, at his studio in New York. We were so young -- I was 4 yrs. old my Brother was Age 6. Joe cast us as Carmen Miranda and The Sailor. A smile. I will always remember the kindness and joy of dance that was always a part of him as well as the professionalism and work ethic we were all expected to have--I remember being devastated at that young age to have to cancel a show due to the Measles! A smile. Thank you, Mr. Joe, Mr. Michaels, for your Teaching, for the love of Dance, for the beautiful memories. Peace & Love to You and Loved Ones
Debra Washington- Starnes
May 11, 2015
Mr. Michaels, I took tap dance from you for 10 years and it was the best time in my life. You must have seen real talent in me since you placed me in a class with other girls years ahead of me. I think about you fondly all the time. You were such an integral part of my life and I will love you forever!!!
Heidi Melchiona
January 3, 2005
Dearest Dad,
I never called you Dad during the 25 years of being blessed to be married to your son, but now I see that you were more than just my teacher, mentor, friend, . You were and are, also my father. You took an eleven year old child with no self confidance and helped shape me into the person I am today. Through you I have learned that everyone has something to offer and that God has a plan for each of us.
The last time we said goodbye I knew it would be. I am so thankfull that you came to our new home to be sure we were happy. The talks we had each morning about the kids and our new life I will hold and cherish forever.
Till the end your passion for life and living it to the fullest will remain in my heart.
You were a humble but great man.
I miss you more than I ever dreamed possible. In your son and Grandson I am reminded of your presence daily, you will allways live on. I thank you for the bringing of many wonderful family members into my life, even through your death.
Know that "Simone Slone is now at home".
All my Love, I know your watching over us all.
Your daughter,
Heidi (Jablonski) Melchiona
Steven Johnson
December 13, 2004
Joe: I didn't know you that long but you had an incredible affect on everyone that met you. I got to know you through my wife your niece and you have had a great affect on me and Deb. She still talks about you to this day you are missed very much. I spoke to Joey your son the other night and he misses you greatly and you influenced his life more than you will ever imagine. Ruth has been my rock in times of trouble and is a real prayer warrior for all of us. God bless you Joe (Mr Bojangles) you danced the way we all wish we could. We love you and miss you.
Steve and Debi Johnson and Family
Marsha and Bob Hertig
December 4, 2004
Dear Ruth, Dana, Mia;
Bob and I were always blessed attending the Dade County Auditorium Christmas performances that you and Joe and your family put together. What wonderful performances they were, and presented with such a spirit of excellence too!! Remember Ruth, when we celebrated the 4th of July at the South Miami Elementary School to the wonderful band music and Mia choreographed a special patriotic dance routine with the Joe Michaels dance students? Wow, that was a long time ago. What a heritage you and Joe have. God has truly blessed you in your children. I remember that Joe always had an up-beat "hello" for me when I would pick you up for our volunteer work at the Women's Jail. I even got the chance to experience tasting some of Joes delicious Italian leftovers before we hit the road. There were many times you invited us to worship the Lord at your dance studio that was turned into a house of prayer and praise on Sundays. Like the song says "he's dancin with the angels", as well as all the family and friends that were believers that went before him. May the Lord bless you in this part of your journey and fill you with God's peace and joy even in the sorrowful times. We love you.
Bob and Marsha
Lisa Calcagni
November 28, 2004
As we mourn, Heaven rejoices!
God Bless You Ruth, Dana,& Mia
Anna Marie McMillian
November 26, 2004
Joe was one of a kind and he created a lot of happiness and pride in those who knew him well and danced at his studio.
I will miss him greatly even though I havent seen him for quite a few years. God bless him
Amy Davidson
November 19, 2004
Dear Dana and family,
My first experience with your family was over ten years ago in Miami and then in New York City. The love, passion and excitement of dance you and your family have made me fall in love with dance all over again! The few times I had with your father is something I will always remember. I take these experiences into my teaching each and every time I set foot into a classroom. Taking class with the Michaels family is like nothing else I have ever experienced. Your father was an absolutely fabulous man who will always be cherished in hearts of all dancers all over the world.
Betty Graff
November 17, 2004
Dear Ruth, Mia & Danna, As one of Joe's "Poor Darlings" I spent several hours a week at Joe Michael's Studio. The warmth was felt as soon as you were greeted by Joe, Ruth, Mia or Danna. It was a family of great people and dancers. Thru the many years at the Studio I was fortunate to meet so many wonderful people. Helen Chin and I looked forward to each class. Joe was loved by everyone that knew him. His upbeat, kind and gentle ways will never be forgotten. There are so many memories of the one and only Joe Michaels. My deepest sympathy to Ruth, Mia & Danna. God bless!!! With love always, Betty Graff
Anne Fletcher
November 16, 2004
Dedication. It was Joe's middle name. Besides Gene Kelly who danced almost as good as Joe, I never met anyone as dedicated to the 'art' of dance like Joe. He's probably formed a 'halo' line for the angels. And even the clouds will begin to move in 'formation'. To Ruth, Dana, Mia and family, your loss is Heaven's gain. His mortal body will be missed but his spirit is eternal.
Love,
Anne Fletcher (Price)
Christy Llado-Escudero
November 16, 2004
Dear Ruth, Mia and Dana,
My love and prayers are with you now and always.
Life at the Joe Michaels Dance Studio and with the Michaels family started for me when I was 7. It was such a huge part of my life and will be with me always that I am not sure quite where to start. The Michaels family is a family filled with love, understanding, happiness and an overabundance of talent... a family so many have been touched by. In Mia, & Dana I had two supportive big sisters and in Ruth and Joe an extra mom and dad. These four people have always been there for me - in good times and in bad and taught me to believe that anything is possible if you just believe in yourself and work hard. They have helped to shape my life in so many ways. Words will never express my gratitude. Thank you.
Joe was an amazing person. As a teacher he instilled in me that it is more important to care about your students as human beings than how talented they are...to look beyond what other people see they may just surprise you.. to believe in each student because even if they are not going to be the next Barishnikov they will remember you and remember the love of dance you instilled in them.
I remember the hot turkey sandwiches and yogurt with granola he would bring to me on Saturday morning's when he knew I would be teaching for the next 5 hours and I'd been out too late the night before. I remember his smile and positive words when I needed it the most.
Thank you Joe for always making me feel like I was a star in your eyes. Thank you for instilling in me that time is precious and we should all make each moment count. Thank you for making my life more beautiful. I will never forget you.
I know heaven is a more beautiful place today because you are there. May you fly like a dove and be free with God the way you so deserve.
Love Always,
Pastor Bern Zumpano
November 16, 2004
Dear Ruth and Family....
It was an honor to be with you all at your time of loss, and a privelege to have performed Joe's funeral. I learned so much about him that I never knew, and I was particularly impressed by the number of lives he touched in his own way, bringing happiness to so many people through the study of dance. Dance can be a celebration of life, and just as King David danced before the Lord, I know in my heart of hearts that Joe is still dancing....but now, before the Lord. Let us rejoice in this celebration of new life in Him. Take comfort in knowing that he is not gone, he is just away; that he is not just part of your past, but part of your future. Love to you all, ......Bern
Sondra Walsh
November 14, 2004
Dear Ruth, Dana, Mia
The West Miami Church of God family will all dearly miss our brother Joe. During his last visit to Miami,he surprised us with his visit and we joked because he beat me there. His growth and love of our Lord was clearly evident that day to all of us. That was the only time I remember him coming without Ruth. He always asked prayer for his children and I sure you know how much he loved you. We thank the Lord for the wonderful memories and the fun times we had with our brother Joe.
In addition, the Joe Michaels studio was my daughter, Rebekah's introduction to ballet at the tender age of 2. Ruth, Rebekah(age 18) sends her love and prayers from Fort Jackson, SC and wants you and the family to know that she was thankful that the Lord caused our paths to cross.
God Bless each and everyone of the family and friends of Joe Michaels. It is not goodbye....we will see Joe again!
Lord Bless and Keep Each One of you until that Day.
Kimberly Branam
November 11, 2004
I took classes from Joe Michaels when I was about 18. I lived on Lake Catalina in Miami Florida and at some point Joe Michaels and his family resided on Lake Catalina as well. My bosses young daughter studies jazz dancing and has a remarkable talent. My boss happens to be married to my youngest sister. So he has knowledge of my history with Joe Michaels. Last Friday he informed me of Joes passing. I only studied with Joe for a few years but they were without a doubt the best 2 years of jazz dancing I had ever experienced. I remember admiring his wife Ruth and his children. I was not aware of his remarkable past but I am not surprised due to my memories of his passion & ease. He glided across the dance floor. I watched and followed with wonder. Whenever I am in South Miami I think of the studio. I also noted that he moved the studio to kendall. I remember the competitions in New York. To the family, I express my deepest sympathy. I lost my father a few years back and I adored him and I am sure you do yours. A day does not go by without my thinking of him. My thoughts are with you in this difficult time. It is so nice to see all the wonderful notes from the people that your father & husband touched.
Ioana Alfonso
November 11, 2004
Joe Michaels survives in all the people whose lives he touched directly or indirectly. Anyone that went to the Joe Michaels Studio carries with them strong memories of his glowing happy prescence. There are dancers that even today stand out among others because there is an indestinguishable passion...a "gusto" for the expressing of one's soul...that is evident in them. Even those that have stopped dancing still have that "gusto" in their hearts. Starting with Joe and then through Dana and Mia it has been passed from generation to generation, and has created one large family of performers/artists. Recently I went to a dance competition where young dancers performed. I noticed in them that same unique passion and expression that the studio was known for. They were dancers who are students of students of students all tracing back to Mia, Dana, and Joe. There will be dancers for generations to come with that same indescribable "feeling" that separates them from the rest. Joe Michaels Studio was my second home..if not my first a lot of the time. After the studio has long been gone and after Joe's spirit has moved forward, I am proud to say I am a part of that extended family. I feel Joe is present in all of us that have been touched by him directly as well as indirectly. He has created a legacy and a large extended family of people that are glued together by his true love for life and the stage. I have beautiful memories of Joe with his numerous hats, smiles, and the greatest spaghetti sauce I've ever had. I thank you Joe for all of your many gifts. My deepest sympathy to Ruth, Dana, Mia, and all of the Michaels family. God bless.
Kelly Lafarga
November 10, 2004
I began at the studio at such a young age and basically grew up there. Joe always made me feel that I was a part of the whole studio family. He always managed to get me smiling with his constant humor and optimism. Even though it seems that so much time has passed I feel like it was all only yesterday. Joe touched so many people's lives including mine. The whole family helped shape the person that I have become and I will be forever grateful for it. You are all still in my thoughts and you will continue to be.
Joan Melchiona-Futscher
November 10, 2004
My father, my heart, I am so blessed by being placed in this family. I cannot fathom a world without you dad, I guess that's part of having faith in God and beleiving I'll see you again in heaven. I still remember the first thing you ever taught me, what it feels like to be loved. Your daughter, Joan Melchiona-Futscher
Lena A
November 9, 2004
Dear Ruth, Mia and Dana
My childhood was pretty much spent in the Joe Michaels Dance Studio, and I say that with great pride. Between the Spirituality and the Individuality I am who I am because of my mother and you my other family. In Joe's tap and jazz class when I was about 6 years old, he used to tell us that if we didn't point our toes he was going to hang us from the ceiling fan by our thumbs and toes(said with a smile and recieved with a smile). He had so much faith and encouragement when it came to believing in us, even when we didn't believe in ourselves.
We all know that energy never dies it just transforms and remains constant. As a child who has lost a parent, I believe that the blood that runs through my veins serves as more than a reminder, that they are never gone..she is always with me and he will always be with you..His legacy lives on and I know that you will continue to make him proud. Please know that I Love and Miss you guys!
Sincerely,
Lena
paci flick
November 9, 2004
dear mia,
I didn't know your dad, only knew of him. but I always thought, what a gift you must have been to your father! Your life honors his.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
love,
paci
Melinda Miranda
November 8, 2004
Ruth, Mia and Dana,
How sad it was to hear the news of Joe's passing. I hope your faith gives you all the strength and hope you need to know that Joe is up in heaven dancing up a storm.
Joe was such a happy, kind man, a totally likable guy, that can entertain you with all of his wonderful stories. It was an honor to know him. He will be missed!
Even though it has been years since we last saw each other, I never forget.
God bless you always,
xoxox
Melinda
Daphne Saliba
November 8, 2004
Soooo many memories come to mind when I think of Joe!!! My first tap class with Joe as the "Bumble Bees", all he's jokes, he's sayings "Let me see those teeth". They all just bring the biggest smile on my face. We were all blessed to have met him and the talent he passed on to Mia and Dana, I have THE Best Memories of my childhood at the studio. My sympathy to the whole family. Joe you will be missed, I'm sure you're keeping everyone entertained and smiling up in Heaven.
Christie Machado
November 8, 2004
My cheeks hurt when I think back to the memories I have of Joe in the dance studio. It is almost impossible not to smile from ear to ear. He transferred his passion for dance onto me and everyone else he taught. It was never about competition, it was about having the time of your life with each dance step. He used to say, "Point your toes or I will hang you to the fan by your thumbs!" He always had a joke for everything...even signing our daily card with the most creative smiley faces I have EVER SEEN! What about our trip to Russia? That was a life memory that I shall never forget. My childhood is filled with beautiful memories, and I have Joe's dance studio to thank. Joe brought all people together with a love for dance...as one big happy family! Lasting memories, lasting friendships... Thank you, Joe!
Love, Christie Machado and Family
Talani
November 8, 2004
It's not hard to find words that describe a man whose life has rippled across so many lives. When I ordered an orchid to send to the family (Joe was brilliant with orchids)the voice on the phone asked if I was talking about "THE" Joe Michaels. Not surprised by her acknowledgment and the note of sadness in her voice, I said: "Yes, THE Joe Michaels."
I echo the sentiments of those who have previously signed this book--a loving homage to a warm and gentle man whom I knew as my first dance teacher. I was thirteen when Helen Chin invited my family to go see her in a recital. I was drawn instantly to the spectacle and the dance. Joe made everything dazzle, including his students--his wonder was contagious.What I didn't know is that along the way, knowing Joe as a teacher and family friend, we were not only discovering the wonder of dance but also the wonder in ourselves.
Thanks Joe, for your kind ways, your humor and your ability to see the good in people. You will always be THE Joe Michaels to me.
Oh and thanks for the valuable lesson: "When in doubt...shake!"
Talani
Angel Fraser-Logan
November 8, 2004
Joe will never be forgotten. What he has started and left behind is a life through dance and love that will continue on forever through everyone he has touched. He handed down that gift to all of his children and they continue to hand it down to the ones they love. What an incredible gift to give....the ones that last forever and create a life of its own. Thank you Joe and Heidi, Dana and of corse you Mia for touching my life the way your father taught you best. He was an incredible man and will never be forgotten. My love to the whole family and thoughts will be with you often. xoxo-Angel
Isis Masoud
November 7, 2004
Joe made a dent in the world of dance, and had a lasting impression and huge influence to those who had the luck and pleasure to know him. He will forever be remembered every day that I dance. And I will dance to my grave.
PATRICIA FOX
November 6, 2004
My deepest sympathies to you Ruth and the girls Mia, Dana.
I will always cheresh the beautiful moments that I sahred with your family in the studio. It was in Joe's adult class that I was able to express my love for dance. I learned so much about dance, laughter and poise with him. I have always held Joe and all of you in my heart because I was able to learn the beauty of dance and thus it opened a whole new world for me and later on for my daughter, Chenoa.
Please know that I will keep you and your family in my prayers. I hope you will find peace in the memories of your husband love and life.
I wish I would have known that you were here in Orlando because I would have loved to see both of you. If you ever need a friend, a hand or a help please call me @ 407 647-8704. These are not just words from my mouth but from my heart; I will be there for you.
Love
Pat Fox
Dana Michaels O'Keefe
November 6, 2004
Friends of dad,
If you are interested in contacting my mom, her address is as follows:
Ruth Michaels
5659 Berwood Drive
Orlando, FL 32810
407-296-7076
Thetracker3@ao l.com
Thank you for all of your wonderful comments. Daddy is in a better place now. Heaven will never be the same. Imagine the Recital
Love to all,
Dana
Gloria Haydock
November 6, 2004
My deepest Sympathy to you Ruth,and the Family. It's so sad, but I keep picturing the fun & laughts we all had together many moons ago. I,m sure he was greeted by my Mom(Madam Haydock), Bob, and Tommy, and they are all doing one heck of a Dance right now!!! God Bless, My thoughts are with you. Gloria
Rachel Krissel Barrett
November 5, 2004
Dearest Ruth, Dana, Mia, & Family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Joe was truly an amazing man. I feel honored to have considered him, and all of you, my second family. The many years that I spent at the studio with him, all the trips to New York, many Christmas Eves in your home, and his presence at my wedding will forever be some of my fondest memories. They will always bring a smile to my face. As will all of you. Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Godspeed Joe.
With all my love,
Rachel
Paula Herris
November 5, 2004
Dear Ruth, Dana and Mia;
I am so sad to learn of Joe's passing and I send you my warmest regards, my deepest sympathy and my prayers that time will help ease the pain of your loss. Fondly, Paula
Eriko Calabrese
November 5, 2004
Thank you Joe for making my Mom and I feel like such "stars". No matter how any of us looked dancing, you always made us feel like we were ready for Broadway. Thank you Ruth, Dana & Mia for a wonderful 10 years of fellowship. I really miss it and wished the studio would have been around for my girls. I know that Joe is still dancing but now for all his new stars in heaven. You will be missed.
Barbara Vaughan
November 5, 2004
Will I ever forget the "Mother's Class" at Kendall, So. Miami, and out on Sunset. It was so much fun and you were so much fun--never discouraging the old ladies. A great 10 yrs,very much a part of my life. Still look for a place where 73yr. old can dance without anyone laughing. Will miss occasionaly running into you at Fox's. See you at the big chorus line.....
Dale Gegerson
November 5, 2004
WAIT A MINUTE...
O 69...BINGO...
34 years ago I walked into your studio and you became a part of my life...
You were the best man at my wedding and Dana and Mia were the flower girls....boy did we laugh and dance to Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy...
All our crazy times live on and I will always remember you and know in my heart that we will forever DAZZLE YOU WITH FOOTWORK....
Thank-you for such wonderful memories and Iam sure you are already tapping in heaven...
Ruth,Dana,Mia and all the rest of the family...stay strong and I think of you often...the wedding pictures in our little leotard and tights are really a sight...its never to late for my solo...is it?
WAIT A MINUTE... love you all.
Dale Kono Gegerson
Tom & Linda Gumino
November 5, 2004
Our deepest sympathy to Ruth and the family.
God bless you all.
Nancy Turchin
November 4, 2004
To the Michaels Family,
My greatest memories are from "Joe Michaels" Dance studio. For over 10 years I Danced, and Danced and so enjoyed his Style, Poise and Love for his dancing Passion along with his Family.
I too have watched Dana and Mia grow up in the studios and enjoy all the memories with friends today who danced along side with me.
Deepest condolences.
Donna Winslow-Arnove
November 4, 2004
To Ruth, Dana, and Mia and the rest of the Michaels family,
I would like to extend my deepest sympathy for your loss. I remember Dana and Mia when they were just little girls in the dance studio.
Going there with my friend, Lori Rosenthal, was so much fun for me. I loved everything about it - but especially the dancing and Joe made it so much fun. I still dance, but west coast swing, hustle, and ballroom now. But I will always love jazz.
I wish you all the best and God's love and support to get through this difficult time.
Love,
Donna Winslow-Arnove
Gene Tartaglia
November 4, 2004
Dear Ruth and Family,
I send my deepest regrets over the passing of Joe. He was a great man with talent, energy and love that few have and even fewer today are willing to share with such care. No one could excite or inspire a young child more than Joe Michaels.
It was the most exciting night of my life when Joe first put me on stage on Miami Beach. On subsequent nights, he would hook me around the neck with a cane and haul me off the stage to help the audience 'appreciate' my talent.
And then there was `fascinating rhythm', twelve girls on either side, on the stage at the Fountainbleu Hotel, each of us ascending our home-made silver stairs.
I feel so blessed to have learned from Joe. Not just the steps, which I still perform on occasion, but for teaching me about energy, passion and the importance of putting everything you have into every step along the way in life! Giving 100% to those around you and all the while having fun, smiling, laughing. Thank you Joe!
I will always remember you Joe and keep tappin'.
Take it from the top! And 5,6,7 8!
Love,
Gene
Lori DiModica
November 4, 2004
Not only was Joe a joy to have for the many years that I took dance at the studio but I will most remember him for being the person who handed me my first Bible "The Living Bible" which the Holy Spirit used to lead me to the Lord. For this kind gesture I am eternally grateful. The times shared in church and at their home were very precious memories.
May the Lord give the family peace and strength during this time of great loss but for Joe great gain.
susan eder
November 4, 2004
Thank you Joe for giving me the gift of dance. It gave me confidence and strength when I needed it. You made me feel as if I could dance forever.
samantha josephs
November 3, 2004
I will never forget this man. He shaped such a large shape of my childhood, and I appreciate all he did for me and Joe Michael's Dance Studio.
heather and peggy barinaga
November 3, 2004
THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES WE ALL SHARED AT THE STUDIO. NOT TO MENTION THE GREAT DANCE AND CHOREOGRAPHY WE LEARNED! IT HAS TAKEN US TO THE BROADWAY DANCE CENTER IN N.Y. WITH LOVE AND PRAYERS TO YOUR FAMILIES.
Amanda O'Keefe-Alderman
November 3, 2004
I feel honored to have spent time with this wonderful man and proud to call Dana my "aunt". The creativity that he inspired in so many was amazing and will be continued and ever-present through Dana and Mia.
All our love.
Mandy and John
Soosun Buckner
November 3, 2004
To all of Joe Michaels' large family of friends in Miami and everywhere.
Please add your pictures. This guest book will be available forever as his gift to you will last forever.
April Harris Huzansky
November 3, 2004
My sister & I will always have fond memories of our early years of Jazz & Tap with Joe & Ruth. I was 3 years old when I started and danced with their studio until I was 16. We were also in their "Junior Line" and had a great experience of competing in the Dance Educators of America located in New York City in 1982 and won second place for the State of Florida. My Mother-Irene, Father- Robert, Sister-Tracy and I, would like to express our deepest condolences. We will miss him greatly.
SUE MEHLE
November 3, 2004
We will miss Joe.
My deepest sympathy to this wonderful family.
Fondly, Sue Mehle
Paula Plyler Marks
November 3, 2004
I was 5 years old when my brother Kyle and I began dance lessons with Joe Michaels. We continued on with him for 11 years and to this day I regret quitting. Joe was a tremendous influence on us, like a 2nd father. My fondest memories are of him, our recitals and shows on Miami Beach. Kyle and I still remember many of our dances and duets, and the fellow dancers we learned them with. I am now reliving the experience with my own daughter's dance classes.
Dear Joe,
Is was Kahlil Gibran who said, "When the earth shall claim your limbs, then shall you truly dance." Thank you for the gift of dance in life. Paula June Plyler
Kenneth Bryan
November 3, 2004
We will always remember Joe and our dinners at Fox's. He was always so upbeat and fun to be around! My father and sister join me in sending our sincerest wishes and condolences to you, his dear family!
Kyle Plyler
November 3, 2004
"I Can Do That"... song from The Chorus Line comes to mind after my sister, Paula started taking tap & jazz with Joe at his studio on 27th Avenue. So, "I did do that" and took from Joe in my elementary school days into Jr. High.
My first tap # was to Neil Sedaka's "Right Next Door To An Angel". Around the same time, Joe began his new love life with "Mary Clumsy", a pet name Joe called Ruth because she had two left feet. I remember her laughing face as she stumbled through the routines. Very funny. Love you, Ruth.
Thank you, Joe, for all the memories I still think of, talk about and cherish. I still remember and find myself doing an old tap routine even when I am just sitting in a chair. My sister and I can still do the jazz routine "Scorpio" that Joe taught us in the 60's. Amazing the things that stick with you from your formative years. Joe was a huge part of that.
I send my love and strength to Ruth and family to accept that Joe is well again and is presently all around us. Now you can breath him in. And so, I take a deep breath and remember.
XO, Kyle
Darcy Tannebaum
November 3, 2004
There was no place in town to learn to dance like Joe Michael's. I feel fortunate to have had the chance to do just that for so many years. My thoughts and prayers go to his entire family at this time of sadness.
Barbara Bernstein
November 3, 2004
I will always remember Joe as such a sweet, caring, and loving man. I feel very blessed to have known him and will always think of him as the real "Lord of the Dance".
His 'bingo'bongo talk always brought a laugh to his friends when we had our many dinners together.
Love to all of you,
Barbara,
my daughter, Amy
Jim Stang
Peggy
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