Joseph Baltus Enders, III

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Joseph Baltus Enders, III, who departed this life, one year ago today, on August 24, 2024, in Centreville, Maryland, at the age of 83.

Born on November 29, 1940, in Syracuse, New York, Joe was a man of sharp intellect, dry wit, and unwavering devotion to his family, friends, and country. He was a proud graduate of Solvay High School and earned his degree from Syracuse University, Class of 1963, laying the foundation for a lifetime of public service.

Joe began his career as a commissioned officer in the United States Navy, serving with honor and distinction. He went on to a long and respected tenure with the United States Marshals Service, where he contributed significantly to the advancement of justice and federal law enforcement. His career culminated in 2007 when he served as Interim Director of the Federal Executive Institute (FEI) in Charlottesville, Virginia-guiding federal leaders with the same steadiness, thoughtfulness, and humility that defined his life.

Joe was also an active member of the St. Andrew's Society of the Eastern Shore of Maryland, where he proudly celebrated his Scottish heritage and contributed to local charitable and cultural initiatives. From 2012 to 2019, he sang with the Bay Country Chorus, finding great joy in music, harmony, and the camaraderie of fellow singers.

Joe was a lifelong learner and avid reader, especially drawn to books on history and science. He was deeply curious about the world and the ideas that shaped it. Those who knew him will remember his boisterous, cheerful greetings, his genuine interest in others, and his habit of making everyone feel seen, appreciated, and important.

In retirement, Joe became a well-loved presence in the Easton, Maryland community, often seen sharing coffee and conversation with dear friends at a favorite coffee shop in St. Michaels-always offering insight, humor, and heartfelt encouragement to everyone he met.

Joe's passion for craftsmanship was evident in the many woodworking and home projects he completed around his Easton property. He poured his creativity and skill into designing and building a boathouse shed, crafting numerous custom built-in cabinets, and finishing every inch of detailed trim work in the carriage house he designed himself-complete with a fully equipped woodworking shop that became his sanctuary and creative haven.

One of Joe's deepest joys was being on the water. He spent many happy years sailing the Chesapeake Bay with his son aboard his 36-foot Pearson sailboat, Mystic, where he found peace, freedom, and connection.

Joe treasured his family above all. He constantly encouraged his children and grandchildren to live life to the fullest. Some of his happiest moments were spent hosting crab feasts on the Eastern Shore, gathering generations together to celebrate Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day with food, laughter, and tradition.

Evenings often ended around the fire pit, watching the sunset over his beloved Le Gates Cove. Those nights were filled with great conversation, shared memories, and endless s'mores, which Joe loved just as much as his grandchildren.

Joe also shared his life with many furry companions, including a beloved cockapoo named Sampson, and in later years, his devoted friend Caspian, a Cavalier King Charles-Cocker Spaniel mix. Caspian was Joe's shadow, often seen fishing with him on the pier, quietly enjoying the peaceful rhythm of time together.

Joe is predeceased by his parents, Dr. Joseph B. Enders, Jr. and Harriett Tooley Enders, and by his brother, Gerald F. Enders, and his wife, Lynn Parli, who passed six months after Joe.

He is survived by his first wife, the mother of his children, Linda Enders-Bailey of Virginia Beach, VA; his son and daughter-in-law, Joseph and Veronica Enders of Burke, VA; his daughter, Elisa Renee Enders of Heathsville, VA; and daughter, Elizabeth Ashley Enders of Richmond, VA.

Joe was blessed with four grandchildren, Mikinsie, Sabrina, Shelby, and Grace, and one great-grandchild, Willow.

Also surviving are his sister, Gail S. (Sam) Hopson of Grand Island, FL; his step-children; and many dear cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family.

A small private family celebration of life will be held on the Chesapeake Bay, as Joe wished.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Joe's memory to:

The Salgi Esophageal Cancer Research Foundation

www.salgi.org

CAVU - Ceiling And Visibility Unlimited.

Fair winds and following seas, Joe.