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Joshua L. "Josh" Wittenberg
Joshua L. "Josh" Wittenberg
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Joshua Wittenberg Obituary
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Pauline Merrall
June 24, 2011
Vicki & Alan
My thoughts are with you having lost my daughter also in 2007,,but it is the hilarious memories that helps as the years pass by. Stories retold many times they never seem to get old.
Fondly
Pauline
Jonnell Atkins
June 23, 2011
Josh, I was never blessed with the opportunity to meet you but your mom has been telling be all about you (well she tries to but I think your life is bigger than the series if Harry Potter books, & I'm curious to hear it all). We had dinner last Saturday & she is just hilarious. It's amazing to see someone so optimistic after loosing you.& did I tell you how much you look like her? Unbelievable. And Alan offered to revise my college papers before I submit them. I hope he gets enough sleep after I'm done with him. I did see (from your blog) that you inherit some of his writing ability, or maybe he got it from you. We vowed to all get together with all of us next time. You and Alan were not allowed, it was girls day out haha! Just incase you were wondering who I am, I am Jonnell Atkins, proud recipient of the Joshua L. Wittenberg scholarship. Nice to finally meet you.
Jonnell Alan
June 23, 2011
Josh, I was never blessed with the opportunity to meet you but your mom has been telling be all about you (well she tries to but I think your life is bigger than the series if Harry Potter books, & I'm curious to hear it all). We had dinner last Saturday & she is just hilarious. It's amazing to see someone so optimistic after loosing you.& did I tell you how much you look like her? Unbelievable. And Alan offered to revise my college papers before I submit them. I hope he gets enough sleep after I'm done with him. I did see (from your blog) that you inherit some of his writing ability, or maybe he got it from you. We vowed to all get together with all of us next time. You and Alan were not allowed, it was girls day out haha! Just incase you were wondering who I am, I am Jonnell Atkins, proud recipient of the Joshua L. Wittenberg scholarship. Nice to finally meet you.
Peter Huey
July 30, 2007
Vicky & Alan,
I was and am so sorry to hear about the passing of your son, Josh. You, Vicky, were one of my Physical Therapists when I lived in Granby, Connecticut. I'm sure that you instilled in Josh, as you did in me during our time together, a sense of "fierce independence" and adventure that served Josh and myself quite well. I'm sure Josh was a special guy, and the Good Lord needed him to tell the angels some adventure stories. Once again, my deepest condolences............
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manish malhotra
July 25, 2007
i m continuosly mailing u ,but not recieving any reply from ur side.i hope u and mr Alan are fine and i m actually worried about both of u.please take of ur self,and always contact me whenever required.
Elaine Lizardi
July 22, 2007
The connection: my young nephew and I had pain, depression, angiety,all which only a handicap dissable can relate. He alwayes wanted to have time with me alone to try to help me with understandinding what yoga meant to him. I rember on one of my visits to your home, he wanted to spend sometime walking in the park with Gustoff and I but it was a hard one for us our painfull leggs were too much for us, so we looked for shaded benches to stop and recoup ourselves. These are my lasting joyful memories trying to enjoy life as it was for us. Josh was a beautifull person with a heartfull of compasion for others. NOW YOU ARE A BEAUTIFUL SOUL!
To my Dearest Sister Vicky,
Looking up to you has always been a revelation for me. You have been my second mom, your love always shining, your carring ways when I needed, a sweet loving hand with school or just to spend time at a dress shop. You made me feel like a pretty little girl. To have a sister like you is an honable blessing. For this Josh will be blessed in the heavens.
I am so sorry for your pain. I tryed hard not to cry when I think of him but you know I will carry these tears inside of me for ever.
Dear Alan,
He did take after you in caring for others. I can rember when Oscar and I and him were on one of the cruz ships, we were both hurting with our feet but enjoying life on our vacation with Josh we managed to enjoy the trip with taking lots of breaks at local restraunts. What a fowonderful memory to keep of Josh.
You have been a wonderfull farther always there for Josh ready to support him emotionally in everyway you could for him, and I know the bond you and he had will never be forgotten. May now God keep that bond blessed between you and Vicky.
So sorry for Josh, I know what he felt, thank God we have this drive that keeps our sprit alive.
WE WILL NEVER FORGET YOU JOSH!
God Bless you, may he keep you in the light with him.
Linda Gengel
July 20, 2007
Dear Vicky and Alan,
Today was Josh's memorial service, and I wanted to share some memories:
I remember meeting Josh at your house and thinking what a nice and handsome young man. Steve enjoyed talking to him about his music career. I remember you telling us how he had painted your kitchen and helped you with other things, as well. I thought how lucky you are to have such a thoughtful son, and I thought if I did have a son, I would want him to be like Josh. I also confess thinking how I would have liked him to meet one of my daughters! I will always remember him celebrating life at your birthday party as you jointly blew out your candles. He remains forever your light in the darkness. With Deepest Sympathy, Linda and Stephen
MaryAnn Marrero
July 19, 2007
To my dearest sister Vicky and Alan,
Thank you for Josh, who you created from your happiness. It was because of this happiness that love was so well rooted in Josh. In his eyes there always shined a light that reached out to all. In his smile he gave us his soul and we all new he loved us. How can I thank you for sharing Josh with us from his first years. First, baby sitting for him, how he would only nap if he could curl up in PL's bed and sleep with his arms around him. Even then he showed his love for animals. Then, I will remember how he would hold unto my legs and cry at the end of my visit, trying to hold me so I would not leave. Josh was like a son to us always visiting and sharing the different stages of his life with us.
In his later years, what I will treasure most about him was how he would always call us and simply say hello. When you asked him was he coming to see you he would always say yes. His visits were always full of the Josh we all loved and knew with hours of cooking and learning the ins and outs of his Mac world, and yes never hiding his argumentative side, but always coming back to us with those same eyes and smiles. So thank you again for that special Josh who we fell in love with on first sight. Our hearts are broken, but in our hearts his memories will always be.
Your in our prayers,
MaryAnn and Joe
To Josh,
I know that in heaven there are mysterious and powerful angels, and even though our hearts are broken because of your death. We'll think of you as a mighty angel. Intelligent and willful, surpassing in perfection.
Beside each believer stands a guardian angel so we'll look for you and share with you the rest of our days.
" Angel is the name of their office, not their nature, and their nature it is spirit."
With all our love always,
MaryAnn, Joe, Daniel, Vivian, and Pebbles
July 17, 2007
Dear Titi Vicky and Uncle Alan,
Joshua was the nicest and sweetest cousin ever. I am truly sorry for his lose. I remember him as a man who wanted Dan and me to be kind to one another and get along. Every time we got into a fight he would try to stop the fight, because he knew that it was not right. He cared for others no matter what the case was. He was a very good cook. I am glad that he did everything that he wanted to do. I know that as we grow older we will always remember his happy moments, even though I didn't know him as much as you did, but I still have good memories of him. He cared for animals, because i saw that he loved Pebbles. I know that no matter what happens you will always keep him in your hearts, and I believe that that is a good thing. We will also keep him in our hearts. When I heard the news the day after he died I was so stunned, and I couldn't believe what I heard. After a few seconds of standing there I went and cried for quiet some time. When I finished crying, I saw from the tears that I shed, a little heart made out of my tear. Now I realize that wherever we will go he will be with us and watch out for us. I know he will guide us through this tough time, because he cares for us. I know that he is looking at what we are doing from where he is. I am also aware that he would like us to continue living our lives to the fullest and for us to continue living our lives as if he were here.
Love,
Vivian Marrero
Marge, Don & Meredith Longley
July 16, 2007
Dear Vicki, I'm not sure if you'd remember us. You were our daugher, Meredith's phys.therapist when she was involved with the Birth-to-Three program. We lived in E. Htfd then and I think Josh was attending the Masters School. Since I see Josh's age is 30 and Meredith is now 24, it has been several years. But, I remember the wonderful treatment you gave Meredith back then which is why I never forgot your name. I was very sorry to see the recent Memorial Service notice for Josh in the Htfd Courant. From reading his blog, I guess he had quite a fulfilling and exciting life. We want to express our deepest sympathy to you and your husband. Marge and Don Longley
Sheri Mason
July 15, 2007
Dear Mr. & Mrs. Wittenberg,
I was Josh's preschool teacher at Knight Hall School. I was shocked and saddened to see the obituary. I remember Josh as being a bright, happy 3-year-old, so full of life. I missed him when you left to take him backpacking around Europe. But I guess you instilled in him a sense of adventure. I so enjoyed reading his blog of his India adventures. What a great writer and adventurous young man he turned out to be! You must have been so proud of him. He certainly lived life to its fullest. And I'm still just teaching at Knight Hall! Warm wishes, Sheri (Bengtson) Mason
Evelyn & Gabby Gerard
July 14, 2007
my dearest sister Vicky, & dear Alan, how much it hurts me to see this and be reminded Josh is no longer with us. I am so sorry for your pain, it isn't fair, he finally came home and things were going to be alright again. We were waiting to see you Josh and tell you how much we missed you and loved you. We were all praying for your recovery and to be in our lives once more. We didn't expect you to leave us behind to mourn and grieve for you this way. Sometimes we question ourselves, how can life go on, but it does and somehow we drift ever forward as if on a cloud and deeply lost somewhere not of this earth wondering how did this happen. It is in disbelief, I keep saying to myself this can't be happening to both of you. We are all hurting so much for the loss of our dearest Josh, we love you so much.
Josh, I know you are with Dad and our dearest grandmother, aunts & uncles & our darling cousin, Jose. It is sad to think about you gone from us so far away and yet I know you still live in another world I don't know about but hear about it's existence. I want you to know that I will always talk about you and never forget to talk to you, even if it's every other day, from sun up to sun down, as I lay my head to sleep, or when I awaken to the morning.
People always say "be strong, he wouldn't want you to be suffering so" but how can we go on without our dearest Josh in our lives. The laughter you brought to us and the joy of you, just being you. I still see your smile and hear the sound of your laughter.
My little nephew, oh Josh our family has a large hole in it but aren't we lucky to have each other to hold and lean on through our suffering. We can share our fondest memories of you when we come together and there you'll be, through our stories and laughter. You were always such a dear nephew, getting into such mischief as a little boy. Oh how I will love to hear stories about you when we are all there, because there will always be stories.
Of this I know is true, Love never dies and I will forever keep you close in my heart. God Bless you Josh, Peace be with you in Heaven, you are our angel watching over us now. Oh what joy the day I come and there you'll be to greet me and welcome me Home.
Love, your Auntie Evelyn & cousin, Gabby. XOXOX
Love you Vicky & Alan, I want you to know you are with me every day and praying for your strength and endurance as time goes by.
Vicky, enjoy the smell of the flowers around you and stop to notice the beauty of it all. It will be a gift sent with Love.
Tara Deveney
July 13, 2007
Dear Mr. & Mrs. Wittenberg,
I was so sad to hear about Josh...I'm sorry for your loss. I knew Josh at Morley and all the way through our high school years at Hall. I remember Josh as being kind, smart and creative. My heart goes out to you both. My thoughts and prayers are with you...Tara (Donagher) Deveney
Amy Sandberg
July 9, 2007
Dear Mr. and Mrs Wittenberg and family,
My deepest condolences are with you at this difficult time. May your memories and loved ones bring you comfort.
I had the privilege of getting to know Josh while we were both in the Jazz Band in middle and high school. He was a good friend, a great person, and I have many fond memories of our friendship at that time.
The world has lost a beautiful soul, but he will live forever in our hearts.
Amy Sandberg
Louise Powell
July 7, 2007
Josh and I began our journey together on New Years Eve of the new Millennium. We chatted most of the night and ended up sneaking a kiss outside the back lounge on the Carnival Elation. A spot that we revisited a couple of years later on our Anniversary. Our time together on and off ships, was a time I will cherish forever. We shared so many experiences and grew together not only as a couple but also as individuals. We laughed, cried, discussed, worked, got silly, fought, played, sang, danced, ate, slept, wrestled, pondered, soul searched, travelled, debated, listened to music, learnt Spanish, spent all our wages and so many other things, the list could go on forever.
Josh was such a unique individual. He always had time for everyone and never was too quick to judge. When he did have an opinion though, everyone new it! Such a stubborn little man at times! Josh had so much to offer and taught me many things, made me look at life from different perspectives and realize that it's not all black and white, there's a whole rainbow out there. He was always looking to better himself and consume as much information as one person could possibly compute. He reminded me sometimes of that wide- eyed child that we all were at some stage of our lives. Curious about everything, asking "why?" constantly and having such a thirst for knowledge.
After five and a half years, our journey had to come to an end. An obvious fork in the road had appeared with two completely different paths. Neither of us wanting it, but it was what had to happen. Josh had to go and live his life for himself and find who he truly was. Explore every avenue, expand his mind, body and soul. I'm glad he was finally finding his true calling and just beginning his real life's journey. It's so good to hear how he touched so many people, how he embraced life and was following his dreams. He deserved nothing less. I am blessed to have known him and will remember that cheeky smile and those big brown eyes forever.
To Alan and Vicky,
My heart goes out to you both. I don't know if you will ever realize just how much Josh loved and respected you. He always talked of you and valued your opinions greatly. You weren't just great parents, you were also his best friends. What more can a son ask for?
To Josh,
Words cannot even begin to express the emptiness I feel right now. You will always have a special place in my heart and I will cherish our memories forever. May you find peace wherever you may be. Remember, it's never goodbye, it's always see ya later!!
"The song is ended, but the melody lingers on...."
Irving Berlin.
Laura (Green) Boyer
July 1, 2007
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Wittenberg,
I am so sorry to hear about Josh. We played in the Hall High Jazz band together and he was always a kind, thoughtful and creative individual. Please know that my thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
With deepest sympathy,
Laura (Green) Boyer
Alicia Gregson
June 29, 2007
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Wittenberg:
I am so sorry for the loss of your son Joshua. I was lucky enough to know Josh from elementary school at Morley, all the way up through our High School days at Hall. He was a sweet, funny, intelligent and kind-hearted soul who touched many people's lives. You are all in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Very best wishes,
Alicia, Judy, Bob and Matthew Gregson
I stood on the shore and watched him set his sails and head out to sea. When he reached the horizon and disappeared I cried and said to myself, “There he goes.” ?
Little did I know that on the other shore a crowd of people were cheering, “Here he comes!” ?
- Author Unknown
Lory Leonardi
June 28, 2007
Struck by the unexpected piece of news. Really sorry and near to you and family with all my affection and understanding.I'll try to contact you .
Lory Leonardi and family,
Via Zanon 18
Udine - Italy
00390432503596
Christine McKenzie
June 24, 2007
Vicky and Alan -
I am so sorry to hear that Josh has passed away. He had a big influence in my life, despite the fact that we only knew each other a very short period of time. We met at Kripalu, where we volunteered in the maintenance area together. He was always there to make a joke, or read a passage from his book of Zen Koans, encouraging us to puzzle over the meaning of yoga, and more broadly what our practice of living was all about.
Josh opened me up to the joys and mysteries of life as a practice of serving (others and the broader world) in a way I had not considered before. He also taught me how to meditate, which is a lasting gift in my life. When I have the awareness to remember, I sit and listen to my breath as he showed me, and things become clearer. I can only imagine what light he has brought to the world.
My heart goes out to you, the and rest of his family and friends during this difficult time.
Patricia Eyford
June 23, 2007
Aloha Vicky,
I had the pleasure of meeting you two summers ago when I participated in the Kripalu Path Program. It has been noted that Josh was the light of your life and it was evident that you were also the light of Josh's life. I can recall Josh cheering us on from the sidelines as you, Mari and myself did a full moon walk on the labyrinth. Who ever could have seen this coming? I am so very sorry for your loss.
Josh, I will never forget the kindness, comraderie and friendship you extended towards me.
"Me ke aloha pau'ole"
With love that will never end
Thoughts of you are here with me in Hawaii.
Sonu
June 21, 2007
Dear Vicky and Alan,
I never met Josh, but in some way through your emails and our meeting in Delhi,I felt like I got to know him a little. He sure was a wonderful spirit and I am sure he got a lot of that from you two. I have admired your courage and strength in the past couple of months. Times have been trying for you but you have lived through them with much dignity and composure.
Your loss is immense-indescribable in words- and I am deeply saddended by it. But please remember that wherever Josh's spirit is now, it is free of pain,suffering and the bondings of the physical body. Closer to the divine and resting in peace.
You are in my thoughts and healing prayers.
Sonu
Beth Morrissey
June 21, 2007
Vicky,
I am so sorry for you and your family. I never knew or met Josh but from what you would tell me he seemed so nice. May time heal your heart and always know that although love ones pass away, they are never gone. Josh will always be with you. I'll keep you and your family in my thoughts.
Wilma Ferkol
June 21, 2007
Dear Vicky and Alan, My heart goes out to you as the news about the light of your life, Josh, reached me. I remember Josh as the little boy who kept you all on your toes. It seems that his life was full of the spirit that you both took so much time and effort to plant. He sounds like such a wonderful young man. I am saddened by the loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Mari Kennedy
June 20, 2007
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Wittenberg
I only just heard this morning about my gorgeous friend Josh passing over. I remember spending a lovely full moon evening with you Vicky when you came to visit Kripalu. I am so sorry for the sadness and loss you are suffering. I know there is very little that I can say but I do want you to know how grateful and privileged I am to have I shared two wonderful months in Kripalu with your bright, sensitive, argumentative, intelligent, witty, sometimes frustrating, always questioning, ever truthful son.
His first words to me across the table were "Do you think meditation is just another form of escape?” It was a question he threw out to the table in general. I had just arrived from Ireland, I was jet lagged and exhausted but I couldn’t resist. I had to get my bit in..... and that was the moment that our friendship began. We spent a lot of time in those two months toegther- practicing yoga (mostly on his terms), having lunch on the wooden tables, staying up late mulling over our existence as we launched into yet another brownie from the shop. I watching him stock up on precious deserts on Saturday nights. I taught him head stand in the dark in the canteen between two tables. So many memories. Great memories. He was my friend, my companion, my confident, my baby brother, my Anam Cara.
I was inspired by his determined and purest (sometimes misguided by his need to argue!)approach to his yoga practice. I celebrated his fascination with the workings of the body , something that he told me he got from you Vicky. So many times over the past year I sought his advice as I set out on my yoga teaching path. And his advice was always incredible. We spoke of him coming to teach in my Yoga Studio in Dublin next year. I had plans to have him in my life for the long haul.
After I found out about his passing this morning I asked him to be with me as I taught my classes. But in true Josh style he let his presence be known with windows banging in the wind that could only have been the spirit of my dear precious friend. He always made me smile and despite the passing of his physical presence he made me smile again today. His spirit remains to guide and keep us.
Ni bheidh a leithead an arís.
Benjamin Wu
June 20, 2007
To me, Josh was always the friend who was always most willing to stand up for his beliefs, no matter what. All the world could be marching one way, and Josh would always do what he knew in his heart to be right. In that way with Josh’s passing, it’s as if we lost a voice of truth and honesty amongst all the complexities of life.
Since I met Josh in elementary school, he has always been one of my best friends. My memories with him are numerous; playing dungeons & dragons in his room, racing on the mountain bike in local woods, watching my dog Webby pee all over him as he would always do, and arguing about who was more “obnoxious” to girls. We would spend hours on the phone talking about many random topics. As we grew up, we would get together often in New York and West Hartford, whether it be hanging out on New Year’s, grabbing a meal, or seeing a movie back home. He was always there as a reliable, good friend. We were always trying to figure out what next to do with our lives, and confused as we would both be, we would always advise each other about what to do next. After leaving West Hartford, he grew a lot as a person in his yoga pursuits in New Mexico, and I was excited for his next steps in San Francisco. Josh would have made a great physical therapist and would have really fit into life in SF.
It will be a long time until I truly accept that Josh is gone. I half expect him to appear around the corner, making fun of me and cracking jokes. I’m happy to have seen him last fall at Marc’s wedding, and I’m happy to have talked to him right up to when he left for India. I’m glad that up until his last moment, he was exploring the world and pursuing his dreams.
In Josh we’ve all lost a very special friend who understood what it was like to do things a little differently. Take care Josh, I will miss you very, very dearly.
Pamela St.Jean
June 20, 2007
Dear family of Josh Wittenberg,
I had the pleasure of living at Kripalu for a couple of months in the summer of 2005 with Josh. His bold, compassionate, inquisitive, adventurous, and hilarious nature was an inspiration to me as I am sure it must be for others. We spent countless hours together in conversation and laughter. His light will never go out as it shines in all of us that knew him. And although I am lucky to have received that light I will miss him terribly. My deepest sympathy and condolences go out to you.
Stephen Light
June 20, 2007
Dear Mr. & Mrs. Whittenberg,
I am stunned at the news that Josh is no longer with us. I am so sorry for your loss.
Josh was part of the four pack of best friends I had in high school with Ben Lanz and Chris Allen. We spent endless hours together mountain biking, playing music, on Eurotour, eating lunch together, the list goes on… He was fun, silly, smart, talented, and a great friend. He marched to his own drummer and while it’s been a long time since we’ve talked, I’m not surprised that his pursuits led him to India.
I will never forget Josh and there will forever be a lasting impression of his personality and wit that I carry with me. He touched many people and lives on through memories and in our dreams. He is still among us in spirit and we will love him forever.
Devika Rhiannon Tsoumas
June 19, 2007
For "Josh's" Family,
I just received word of Josh's passing. I got to know your son while he was at Kripalu Center. I am a yoga teacher and I am almost 40 so he was my little hungry student. I was the Media Buyer at Kripalu at the time and he would come in and grill me for hours with questions about yoga. He was an incurable sweetie pie and I could never turn him down bcz he was so sincerely seeking more and more knowledge. I turned him on to Tias Little and he did a program with him and then left Kripalu to work for Surya and Tias. All he talked about was getting to India. I am deeply saddened that such a bright light is no longer with us. I am so sorry that you have survived your son and that you bear this pain in your life. I thought a great deal of Josh and he was a consumate joy to be with.
Devika Rhiannon Tsoumas
Roger Lizardi Jr.
June 19, 2007
It's hard to find right the words, cause if you knew him, then you will miss him. No ifs, ands or buts about it. I know I will miss you, and my children will miss you. You will always be my family. Love you Josh.
John Leard
June 19, 2007
I am so sorry for your loss. I continue to keep you both in my prayers.
Valerie Rhodes
June 19, 2007
Dear Vicki,
I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Jan Ruderman, VNA Health Care
June 18, 2007
I was so sorry to learn of your loss. My thoughts are with you.
Pam Fromme
June 18, 2007
Vicky,
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your son. How difficult these past few months must have been for you and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Edith Padilla
June 18, 2007
Dear Vicky and Alan
Although I never got to meet Josh personally, I enjoyed reading the beautiful and descriptive e-mails about his experiences in India. When he wrote, I felt like he was writing to me personally. I am sure others felt the same way.
Words cannot express what I feel at this time. I can, however, say, he was a special person, who seemed to enjoy life and explore all the beauty it has to offer. I have you in my prayers every day. For there is so much to say about how I feel that there is not enough time to write it all.
Edith Padilla (Suffolk County, Long Island)
Laurie Gordon
June 18, 2007
Dear Alan And Vicki,
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time. Laurie Gordon (Eleanor Cohen's daughter)
Kathryn Housewright
June 18, 2007
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Wittenberg,
I was deeply saddened to hear about your terrible loss. I remember Josh not just from Hall but from our first year in college in New York City, when we spent some time together and enjoyed each others' company. I was glad for the times that we got to see each other despite attending different schools. I am sure he will be deeply missed by all those who knew him. I will be thinking of you during this difficult time.
Lynn Atkison
June 17, 2007
As a member of the Santa Fe YogaSource community, I had the special opportunity of having Josh help me occasionally. He was a rare and special person, just beginning this life's journey. He was a joy to be around.
Connor Rowntree
June 16, 2007
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Wittenberg,
I am so sorry for the recent loss of your son, Josh. Josh was someone that I will not forget because he helped me tremendously with my music when I was young. I rehearsed with a group that Josh led a few years ago. It was because of his help that I got into Skidmore's Summer Jazz Institue the summer following working with Josh, even though I was just out of 8th grade. I hope to continue with my music as a career.
Josh had a good sense of humor and our time together was something I looked forward to. I hope he knew that he had a positive influence on us.
Karen Rowntree
June 16, 2007
Dear Vicki and Alan,
We just heard that sad news of Josh's death - Please accept our deepest sympathies in the terrible loss of your beloved son.
Josh was the jazz instructor for my son, Connor, and a group of kids from Hall two years ago. Josh was a mentor to Connor, patient and encouraging. The boys rehearsed weekly for about a year. Josh and I spoke often and e-mailed about what he hoped to accomplish with the group and in his own future.
I am happy to have known him for that brief time and feel that the world is a better place for his presence.
Please know that you will be in our family's thoughts and prayers every day.
Meghan Housewright
June 15, 2007
Dear Vicky and Allen,
I remember looking up to Josh when he was a senior and I was a freshman. He had a great sense of humor and an incredible sense of focus.
You are in my thoughts at this sad time.
Jenny Polla
June 15, 2007
Dear Alan and Vicky: It is painful to visit the beautiful words of Joshua's email. He took me through India with his words and candid comments and wit. Al and I are sorry not to have known him better, but though we knew him briefly he captured a specialJ spot in our hearts. He was a beautifully spiritual person as well as down to earth. We mourn his passing. Love, Jenny and Al
Mitch, Diane, Marty Wittenberg
June 15, 2007
Josh was a young man devoted to living his life to its fullest. Words cannot express the joy that Josh brought to all of those that he touched. May his joyful sprint live within our hearts forever.
Love, Mitch, Diane and Marty
Last day at Kripalu and more ice-cream
June 15, 2007
Late Night Kripalu Cafe
June 15, 2007
June 15, 2007
Evelyn, Lil Vic, Robert, Christopher and Timothy Lizardi
June 15, 2007
Dear Vicky and Alan: Frankly we are lost for words. Everyday I tell my boys that we must call their uncle and aunt but we cannot find the right words to express our feelings. However, we all know that Joshua was loved by everyone and anyone who met him. He had a special gift. To know him was to love him, how could you avoid it? It was so natural for him to make everyone he met important to him. I will never forget his visits to Florida. He always called us, he always made a visit, he keep the link connected. Our prayers are with you.
Jim Nuzzo
June 14, 2007
To my detriment I did not have the opportunity to know Josh first hand but I have come to know of him through those whom he touched and who loved him. It is his being that has radiated in their lives and this spirit within them will keep him alive.
As the Heart Sutra ends:
gate gate paragate parasamgate bodhi svaha.
(Gone, gone, gone beyond, gone altogether beyond, O what an awakening, all-hail !)
Beautiful smile!
June 14, 2007
and there was yoga at the top of the mountain too!
June 14, 2007
At the top of the mountain
June 14, 2007
Making some ghee in Santa FE
June 14, 2007
S & P Wittenberg
June 14, 2007
From Josh’s blog: “What exactly moves me from my comfortable bed? Of course, I know the answer. Each trip, each puzzle, each beautiful vista, each new taste, every time I plunge into the dark abyss of the unknown, I come out a little stronger, a little more flexible, a little more compassionate, understanding, forgiving, realizing more and more that the only real obstacle is the opaque, hardening of the mind.”
That is Josh. That’s why he touched so many people around the world. We will miss him.
Love,
Aunt Sherrie, Uncle Paul and Ross
Scarlet Riley & Jeff Darling
June 14, 2007
Just from reading all of these poignant letters, I can tell that Josh touched many lives. Our hearts go out to you as you continue on life's journey with memories of him.
Shaun Laframboise
June 14, 2007
TO Mr and Mrs. WIttenberg,
We've never met, I work at Kripalu and hired your son to come to the PATH program a few years back. I very clearly remember Josh and am stunned to hear this. My sincere condolences to you and your family, words will never fill the void.
I'm sorry.
Josh was a great asset to the program, he had lots of ideas, some of which we used, and was a goofball in all the great ways.
I'm shocked to hear all of this and send you some sincere blessings. I trust he has found peace.
Thank you Josh.
Richard Freedman
June 14, 2007
I wanted to send my deepest sympathy to Josh's family and friends. I was shocked and sadden when heard about your tragic loss.
I got to know Josh during my yoga training in Santa Fe 2006, he was the 1st person I met and made me feel welcome with his friendly smile. We enjoyed a number of good times and I will keep his memory alive with my fellow yogis on London.
Sending you all my love and sympathy from the UK
Barbara Nadeau
June 14, 2007
Vicki & Alan,
You have been in my thoughts everyday. It is obvious from this guest book that Josh touched many lives and will continue to live in people's memories for a long, long time.
Connie Walker
June 14, 2007
Vicki and Alan
I just reread some of Josh's blog. What a sensitive, intelligent, witty, respectful young man. And a good writer too! I know you'll miss him terribly. I hope you're comforted by knowing that Josh followed his dreams. Jon joins me in sending our condolences.
Connie, Jon and family
Michelle Mlyniec
June 13, 2007
Vicky & Alan - My heart breaks for you. I just put my new baby to bed and I just can't imagine such a loss, such a sadness. May time ease your pain and sadness. It sounds like Josh was a wonderful man who really embraced life. I will keep you in my prayers.
Christi Scott
June 13, 2007
To Mr. and Mrs. Wittenberg,
You have my deepest sympathy for the loss of your son. It is hard to find words of comfort but this is a time for you and your family to mourn as well as rejoice in his life he had here on Earth. He would want you to do that. I know you will miss him and he will be your angel so try not to worry. I will pray for you and your family. Warm Regards,
Christi Scott
Rosie, Bob, Jer and Fiona shea
June 13, 2007
We are heartbroken over Josh's death. We fondly remember his music playing out the bedroom window, serenading us in our backyard.
It is not surprising that Josh wanted to go into a profession that helps others. After all you two are his parents!
Marc Pasciucco
June 13, 2007
Josh was one of my closest friends. As I try to come to terms with his passing, I’ve begun to take comfort in the fact that he was so well loved by his parents, family and friends (as evidenced by the huge outpouring of support on this site).
There was so much I admired about Josh. He was passionate about everything he did and made me realize that even if you’re going to be sitting at a desk from 9-5, five days a week, you still have to find time to get out and enjoy life. The last few years, I was so happy when he found his purpose: pursuing his yoga studies at Kripalu and Santa Fe and then returning to school next fall to study physical therapy. Things were really coming together for him and it saddens me that he didn’t get the chance to reach his goal.
I have so many great memories of Josh going way back to high school. Carpooling to Farmington to see our girlfriends (conveniently twin sisters). Late night discussions on jazz or classical music—“sneaking” into the Hartt school to practice or record some of his compositions. Walking our dogs at St. Joe’s. Josh coming to visit Josh Alloy and me at Swarthmore and leaving a lasting impression on our friends there. Hanging out in NYC when he lived in some of the tiniest apartments I’ve ever seen. When he was living on the upper west side I remember being introduced to his favorite pizza (at the time)- huge slices for two bucks. This pizza was surpassed recently when I introduced him to Nino’s in Boston. Josh rated Nino’s pizza 5 Ws (highest on his scale). There was also El Quijote on West 23rd: Josh loved that place and we ate there with Josh A. and Benny several times even though we’d stink of garlic for days because of the “Quijote Sauce” slathered over all their food. Even in the last few years when Josh and I lived pretty far apart, we’d talk almost daily over IM chatting about his plans or debating subjects ranging from "Why everyone should own a Mac" or "The inherent evils of Credit Cards”. I’d usually try to avoid him on the rare occasions when the Patriots would lose because like clockwork he’d send me a J-E-T-S Jets! Jets! Jets! chant just to talk a little smack. I’ll always be grateful that he managed to come to my wedding last September, flying back from NM even though he was saving all his extra money for his India trip.
Alan and Vicky- you raised a great guy. He was a friend to all and made a positive impression upon the world even up to the end of his life. No words can ease the pain of your loss but know that Josh’s memory will be kept alive in all of us that knew him.
I’ll miss you Josh. I’d rate our friendship 5 Ws, without a doubt.
Ebony Coles-Easley
June 13, 2007
Vicky, we would like to express our deepest condolences. Words cannot explain the loss of a child but please know that God will carry you through this time of sorrow. Know that you two will meet again and be blessed with an eternity of tomorrows.
We love you and you are in our prayers always.
Love Debra Lizardi, Nina Lizardi and
Skot Veroczi
June 13, 2007
My deepest sympathies for your loss. I remember playing lots of music together and the time he invited me over for a home-made dinner. One of the nicest guys around.
Michelle Broggi
June 13, 2007
Dear Vicky and Alan,
My deepest sympathy to both of you on your tremendous loss. May the outpouring of love for Josh console you and provide a testimony to the many lives that he touched.
Susan Tsantiris
June 13, 2007
Josh was so fortunate to have had such loving, supportive parents, and, before he fell ill, to have been pursing such exciting interests. His life has touched us all profoundly.
Rick Fine
June 12, 2007
I met Josh at Renbrook camp and we became good friends, he had me over for a sleepover party and we watched Jaws. We lost contact then reconnected through trumpet recitals with Ross Tucker, then again at King philip Midlle and Hall High. Years later after losing contact, once again we reconnected at the New School, and at jazz gigs Sunday nights at the Looking Glass in the East Village. I'm still in NY and had always expected to run into Josh again. I'm sure that with his sprirituality and transcendance, he will cross paths with many of us again.
Joe Morelli
June 12, 2007
I am so sorry to hear about your loss, may the all the good memories help to ease your sorrow...my thoughts and prayers are with and your family at this most difficult time.
Brett Widness
June 12, 2007
Saw Josh not too long ago over the holidays. He was a great friend to me, and I am so sorry for your tremendous loss. He will be greatly missed and always remembered.
Brian Militzok
June 12, 2007
My thought and prayers are with the Wittenberg family during this most difficult time. I feel very fortunate to have recently spent time with Josh at Marc Pasciucco's wedding last September.
Marie L. Alfano,RNC, CCM
June 12, 2007
May the love and friendship of those around you who did not have the pleasure of knowing Joshua personally comfort you and your family at this time of loss.
Tagan Ward
June 12, 2007
I was two years younger than Josh in High School, yet we immediately became great friends and I still cherish some of my fondest memories with him - CYO, walking in the reservoir and just everyday laughter and silliness. Josh was an amazing friend and musician and I am deeply saddened by his passing. I offer my condolonces to all family and friends.
Mickey Bond
June 12, 2007
Josh was such a sweet and gentle spirit. He radiated warmth and love. I miss him greatly and send my warmest and deepest sympathy to his family and friends for their tragic loss.
Eleanor Cohen-Makesy
June 12, 2007
Dear Vickie and Alan, I've known Josh since he was a little boy, so I've watched him grow all through the Hall High jazz years; and beyond that through Alan's eyes. I feel your loss very personally and very deeply. My thoughts and my heart are with you during this awful time. Eleanor
Josh posing for the camera with Elana and Brian Militzok and Benny Wu (at Marc's wedding in Sept 2006)
June 12, 2007
Rosa Margeson
June 12, 2007
Dear Vicky,
It is with great sadness that the news of Josh's passing reached me. Please accept my deepest sympathy and please extend my condolences to your husband and immediate family. I will pray for the healing of your spirits.
Josh enjoying a lecture from Will Ratzan (with Lori Ratzan)
June 12, 2007
Josh being surprised by the camera
June 12, 2007
Playing at WH Center
June 12, 2007
Josh at Berkshires
June 12, 2007
Josh with big smile
June 12, 2007
Josh on a hike
June 12, 2007
inversion
June 12, 2007
Josh cooking
June 12, 2007
June 12, 2007
Dibang
June 12, 2007
Dear Vicky and Alan,
Right from our first meeting in Apollo Hospital, New Delhi, I got to know Josh. It was evident how much you cherished him. Even in those very trying times, and I am sure I say this on behalf of the hospital and the hotel staff, you displayed immense patience, courage and dignity. I learnt so much from you.
I am really very sorry to hear about your loss.
May your joyful memories bring you comfort and peace. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Om Mani Padme Hum.
June 12, 2007
My deepest sympathy to you and Alan. I was so saddened to hear of Josh's illness and loss.Please know my healing thoughts are with you.
Sally Henowitz
Brad Wolfson
June 12, 2007
I grew up with Josh and have countless fond memories of him from our Cub Scout days, Superbowl parties at the Janis household, riding our bikes to Morley Elementary school and especially all the music we made at King Philip and Hall. It had been a couple of years since we had seen each other, but I remember fondly last time he came out to see me play a couple years ago when he was back in town, it was great to catch up and talk about old times. Josh was a great person and a truly gifted musician who will be missed by all. My deepest sympathies go out to his family and friends during this difficult time.
Mihal Arguetty
June 12, 2007
I never met Josh, but am saddened by his passing, as if I did know him. Unexplainable. I didn't know Josh, but somehow I feel connected to him. My parents lost my sister, and I know it is very difficult. My healing prayers go out to your family.
Sarah Goldman
June 12, 2007
I was lucky enough to have known Josh way back in elementary, middle, and high school. I remember his big smile, his amazing talent for the trumpet and his passion for music, and above all, his kind and genuine nature. I know that he will be missed so much by everyone who knew him, but I am certain that his spirit will live on in everyone's memories. I am so sorry for your loss, and my thoughts are with your family at this difficult time.
Angel Perez
June 11, 2007
I would like to express my deepest and most heart felt condolences to my aunt and uncle, Vicky & Alan, in there time of need. My cousin was a very loving and kind person, who had a great passion for life. As my uncle told me, Josh did a lot of living for 30 years. What a wonderful statement, and accomplishment, as we morn the loss of beautiful life.
God bless you Joshua... we love you, and miss you so very much.
Your cousin, JJ
Ching Chung
June 11, 2007
Vicky and Alan,
I just heard the news from Jaent Lewis. I thought about Josh yesterday when I rode my bike at resivoire. Josh's beautiful energy and peaceful spirit will always be in my mind. I feel your loss but Josh will always be with you. Ching
Lisa Blumberg
June 11, 2007
Vicky-I never met Josh but felt his being strongly through you. As terrible as it is, your loss is merely tangible. Josh traveled widely but always returned to you. He was always be there for you - just in the next room, about to step in the door, forever and for all time, on his way home. Love, Lisa
Christine Jones, PT
June 11, 2007
Vicky and Alan,
I am so saddened and shocked to learn of Josh's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
June 11, 2007
Vicky and Alan,
We just wanted you to know we are thinking of you. Words fail us, but you are in our hearts.
Love,
The Schnitzer/Slate Family (Debbie, Bob, Sarah Rose, Sam, and Annalise)
Elaine Lizardi
June 11, 2007
Josh,
Thank you! I asked you to help me, and you did with unbeliveable strenght. Wow! You are strong! I will never forget it.
Your Loving Aunt Elaine
Joy Perugini
June 11, 2007
I have fond memories of Josh's laughter filling the band room of Hall High ... such an amazing spirit. I feel blessed to have known him. My deepest condolences to all of Josh's family and friends. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Doreen Johnson and family
June 11, 2007
Dear Vicky and Alan,
We are so sorry for your loss. We followed your emails about his illness and prayed for him -we will continue to pray for strength and peace.
Mark Toce
June 11, 2007
I'm so sorry to hear of Josh's untimely passing. He was an intelligent, compassionate and talented individual. I feel lucky to have known him. Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Denise Covarrubias
June 11, 2007
My deepest sympathy to all. I met Josh last summer at the Tias Little Yoga Training in Santa Fe. What a wonderful person and friend.
With love and hugs,
Brenda and Paul Sullivan
June 11, 2007
Dear Vicky and Alan,
You have been in our prayers and on our minds these past months. Words cannot express how saddened we are to hear of Josh's passing. Please know you will continue to be in our prayers.
With all our love,
Brenda, Paul, Katie Sullivan
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