Joseph Spina

If you had the pleasure of knowing Joe, or “Pa” as all of the kids called him (even us “grown” kids who were related only by love), you know that the world will be dimmer without him. His hugs and double-kisses, booming voice, kind heart, brilliant and insightful mind, encouraging words, ability to truly see a situation and help others see it for what it really is, abundance of love for his family, solid advice, ongoing curiosity, and true caring for others will never be forgotten. Joe Spina you showed us all what true humanity is, and your goodness will be carried on by your precious Joseph, Elizabeth, and Katy. ❤️❤️ This beautiful paragraph written by Danielle Haider perfectly sums up Joe Spina.

Although customary to give flowers or donate to a cause, we immediately knew that Joe’s big heart and eagerness to help would be directed to his helping his friend (Melissa) who he affectionately referred to as his “Partner”.

In addition to being “Partner” to Joe, Melissa has been his eldest daughter, Elizabeth’s friend since elementary school.

Melissa is no stranger to the struggles of cancer. She herself had been diagnosed with colon cancer four years ago at the age of 44.

Ultimately, it was through God that Joe and Melissa were brought together.

Upon Joe’s diagnosis with leukemia, Melissa had a dream in which Joe’s daughter was inconsolably crying. Troubled throughout the morning, Melissa finally decided to reach out to make sure Elizabeth was okay. That’s when Elizabeth shared she’d had been crying all night as her dad had just been diagnosed with leukemia.

Due to the restraints covid put on the patients, their families and friends, it made it impossible for Joe to have anyone accompany him during his first chemotherapy.

Having to go through this experience alone without the support of friends and family is a scary experience. Melissa jumped into action and worked things out so that she could be there during his first and his subsequent chemotherapy sessions, hoping this would ease fears and anxiety as well as those of his family. This is when she became Joe’s “Partner” on this cancer journey.

They supported each other through numerous texts, emails, and phone calls. Melissa reports loving her conversations with Joe on life, and religion, healthy eating, nutrition, among various other topics. Most of all she’ll greatly miss his wonderful advice.

Today Melissa continues her battle. She has pushed well past the initial prognosis, but still has to push everyday.

Joe loved Melissa. While in the hospital and barely speaking, Melissa’s name was mentioned and he yelled out “my partner!”.

Joe’s children know that nothing would make him happier than to see that she wins this battle.