Monday, October 8, 2018
Joe was one of a group of kids from Walnut Drive in Burlington growing up. I was fortunate to have lived across the street from the Somaine family, and Joe was one of my best friends. Joe and I shared a lot of the same interests, and got along like brothers. Joe was always a fun boy, later a college chum and later still grew to become a wonderful man. I will always fondly remember times spent together fishing at Sylan Lake, camping in Joe’s backyard, bike riding in the neighborhood and woods, sledding on Mill Hill in Willingboro, playing “half ball” and football in the street, taking the boat out of Barnegat fishing for bluefish during the summer, birthday parties and backyard barbecues, special snacks for the neighborhood kids, and Christmas mornings at the Somaine house.
I cannot leave a comment about Joe without also commenting on his family. Joe was part of a very close knit family with Big Joe, Carol, and Kim a big part of the neighborhood. The love the Somaine family had for each other was clear from all the big and little things they did for one another. Big Joe somehow always finding time to quarterback our football games in the street, Carol making sure Joe had the best birthday parties (complete with the most wonderful birthday cakes and games and balloons!), and Kim always being involved with whatever was going on (and playing tag, etc with her big brother). Everyone knew what a close, protective family they were, but they also welcomed the neighborhood kids into their family for parties and games and trips. I still feel like a member of the Somaine family and my heart breaks for your loss! Joe certainly knew he was loved and I hope you find comfort in knowing that Joe appreciated all the sacrifices made growing up and loved you all very much!
Joe and I had not spoken very much after college, however I will always consider him to be one of my best friends, and I know he would have been there had I ever needed anything. We never “grew apart” as we never had a cross word between us that I can remember, but rather found other responsibilities that occupied our time. I know Joe was a devoted husband and father. I did not know Joe’s wife Lisa, or daughter Lauren well, but I do know the love in Joe’s heart and the devotion to family he had. My heart breaks for you for your loss, but I sincerely hope that with time your grief will ease and will rather come to fondly remember the time spent together and the love shared. Please know that Joe was loved by many and will also be missed by me. May God comfort you both during your time of mourning.
