I knew this remarkable man my entire life

and he always treated us all like family.

The news of his passing felt like a knife

a tragic loss of one so gentle and friendly.

He was my dad's best friend, as close as brothers

with a history that created a sturdy foundation.

And as they grew, they became amazing fathers

supermen that would mold the next generation.

To live in a world without him just feels strange

it's as if life were imitating a terrible nightmare.

I never got to see his new home on the range

but my heart does go out to those who care.

Some may try to move on, get back the status quo

butit will never be the same without Uncle Joe.