My name is Case Van Kempen, and I was one of Joe's friends at Hope College. We used to play chess together, but the only way I would have a chance of winning was if Joe played with his back to the board. He remembered every move, never turning around to look, and got to declare "checkmate" every time.

Joe came with me to my parent's home in Grand Rapids for the occasional home cooked meal, and quickly became my mother's favorite. For years after, she would ask me what Joe was doing.

I was sorry to hear of Joe's death, but I am thankful that near the end of my own ministerial career, I have found my way to the UCC. I look forward to catching up with Joe in the Church Triumphant.

Rest in Peace, Rise in Glory.

Joe (my grandfather) was an honest, hopeful, and thoughtful man. Above all he had every joke, funny comment, and just the right thing to make the corner of your mouth lift even a millimeter. My mom after so many years was tired of it, which is understandable, but myself, I was amused by such a man who cracked himself up like that. I could use a laugh like that right now, and I’m sure he’d have the perfect joke. He would be happy to see a few jokes in his memorial and I’ll never live up to what he would say but here goes nothing;
-“why do grandpas always smile…” “because they can’t hear anything!” < that one’s true to joe himself 
-“What is your grandpas usual bedtime?” 
“Four hours after he falls asleep in his chair”
-During a church service a grandfather leans over to his wife and says “I just let out a fart, it was silent. What should I do now?”
Grandma answers, “You need to change the batteries in your hearing aid.” 
I think those would make him happy, he was a friendly, supporting and overall loving man that is now on his journey to happiness and peace.