Remembering Joe this Veterans Day

This Veterans Day we honor and thank all our country’s Veterans, especially those we have cared for here at BHCHP.

In remembrance, we would like to share the story of Joe, a gentle and selfless man who served in the US Army from 1976 to 1979. Joe was first welcomed by BHCHP ten years ago upon being admitted to our respite program and became a long-time patient of our NECHV team at our Christine M. Loeber clinic.

In his early life, Joe’s Boston roots ran deep: he attended Boston Public schools, owned a chimney business, and worked as a chef in various local restaurants. In his later years, Joe was fully immersed in the community of the New England Center and Home for Veterans. He was a proud member of AA, a friend to many of his floor mates, and a beloved resident by all staff. Joe would come to the clinic for weekly appointments, often with a book, a cigarette, and a cup of coffee in hand. He greeted each and every member of our clinic staff with kind, genuine words and often stopped by to simply check in on us or have a chat about life or a book he was reading.

Above all, Joe loved to talk about his family. Especially around the holidays, Joe would always return and recount the wonderful times he spent with them. Hearing his stories was a treasured part of our days. He also spoke fondly of his breakfast dates with his sisters.

Several weeks ago, Joe passed away suddenly. Kristin Hirth, RN clinic manager shares, “Joe was a humble, kind-hearted man embraced by our NECHV clinic staff. We feel incredibly fortunate to have cared for him and walked alongside him through his joy and hardships over the years. He will always be remembered.”

Part of our team had the opportunity to attend Joe’s funeral service and meet his family we had heard about for so many years. Throughout his years in the clinic, Joe never spoke much about his military service or life prior to becoming homeless. It was truly special to be able to learn so much more about his history and share in his remembrance with those who loved and cared for him throughout his life.

We at BHCHP are grateful to Joe and all our country’s Veterans for their service. It is an honor to care for them.