Joseph Donovan Waters

Joseph Donovan Waters, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, Godparent and friend, passed away very peacefully on January 5, 2026 at home in Murrieta, California, at the age of 88. Born on September 7, 1937 in Rochester, New York, Joe's vibrant spirit and sense of humor left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Joe's formative years in Rochester laid a strong foundation for his future. After graduating high school at The Aquinas Institute, he pursued higher education at Hobart College, where his charisma and leadership skills shone brightly. Majoring in Political Science, Joe became an integral part of the college community as a member of Sigma Chi and as the Class President, roles that would foreshadow his knack for connecting with people from all walks of life.

Joe's professional journey was as diverse as it was successful. With a career that spanned 23 years in the telecommunications industry, Joe's expertise and work ethic were evident. He worked for Bell of Pennsylvania, AT&T and Northern Telecom before finding his passion as a Corporate Travel Planner with MCI Planners. For 13 years, he excelled in creating seamless travel experiences, a testament to his meticulous nature and love for exploration.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Joe was an avid outdoorsman and athlete. In 1981, he achieved a remarkable feat, completing the New York City Marathon in just 3 hours and 27 minutes. His love for running was parallel to his enthusiasm for hiking, biking and snow-skiing. Joe's adventurous spirit led him to travel extensively, a joy he was fortunate to indulge in throughout his life.

Those who knew Joe will remember him for his humor, quick wit and the generosity that extended to everyone he met. His kind and spontaneous nature was a beacon of light, and his legacy as a city-boy at heart will not be forgotten. Joe's life journey took him from the bustling streets of New York to the snowy peaks of Aspen, Colorado. Despite the allure of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina and Scottsdale, Arizona, he and Leslie ultimately retired in Murrieta, California and would spend time enjoying Coronado in San Diego.

Joe's happiness was rooted in his loving family and a childhood filled with the affection of many doting aunts and uncles. He was very close to his Italian grandparents and acquired their passion for pasta, opera and especially classical music. That passion for classical music led to his involvement with the Aspen Music Festival and serving on the Boards of San Diego Symphony and California Chamber Orchestra.

He met his beloved wife, Leslie, in Aspen where they built a life together for many years. Their love story spanned nearly 40 years and was enriched by the joy of their pets, first two kitties and then four wonderful golden retrievers. Spending time with Joe's three children, Chris, Beth, and Faith, has been an integral part of their lives over the years, as have their granddaughters, Lauren and Taylor. Leslie's family also played a large part in his life.

His love of Jesus has been central in Joe's life. Serving at Crossroads Church in Aspen and at Cornerstone Church here in Murrieta gave him a lot of pleasure. He and Leslie delighted in hosting a Bible Study group for many years, and he was certain that the Lord's presence and goodness allowed him to survive for so many years fighting his courageous battle with cancer.

Joseph Donovan Waters lived a life marked by love, laughter, cookies and ice cream and a zest for adventure. His absence will be deeply felt by his family, friends and all who were touched by his generous spirit. Joe's memory will continue to inspire and guide us, reminding us to embrace life's journey with the same enthusiasm and kindness he did.