Joseph Wagner
Jan 16th 1984 - Jun 26th 2005
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Turquoise
May 6th 2012
All these years have passed and I still think you. You were kind and your smile was radient. I wish I couldve got the opprotunity to tell you how I felt about you. Even while writing this my eyes water up. I will never forget what you taught me. I will keep my head up and strive for greatness. i won't disappoint you. You'll be proud of me. Joe Wagner... I will always love you
October 14th 2011
met Joe in 2003 at Eastern Michigan University. He was my very first friend I made as a freshman in college. Joe was always so gentle, caring, and inspiring. His murder is a crime against humanity, and quite ironic, as he was murder by members of a minority that he fought so hard for. I am thinking about Joe today as the protests on Wall Street are going on. I know Joe would be instrumental in mobilizing youth in our area to speak out. I am compelled to do something about our current state of affairs, and feel I’m given strength by the presence Joe’s loving spirit. Joe was truly an angel, incarnate. And like so many powerful leaders of peace, I am confident he will continue inspiring even more people for years to come after his passing.
Shayla Moy
September 14th 2005
I only knew Joe from the marches we had on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. He was always a really powerful speaker, and his thoughts and dreams were what got me interested. I didnt even know he was gone. I feel terrible. But his life will not be lost in vain. I promise that i will do my best to keep fighting for the same causes that Joe dedicated his life to. I just wanted others to know that he made a huge impact on my life, and he will be remembered forever.
Bianca Hutchinson
August 30th 2005
From the entire BAMN chapter at Bowling Green State University we offer our deepest condolences and we promise we will continue to fight for equality and uphold all of Joseph's dreams. We know that evry time we march he will be there beside us.
Jessi Harmon
August 15th 2005
I am not a family member or a friend but i read Josephs story in the paper and it touched and broke my heart. It was encouraging to read of a young man so involved with inner city work and wanting peace. so his work with out him knowing me was very encouraging and made me even more want to continue to work in the inner city.I know that, that is where God needs to be the most so it is amazing to me when i hear about others and their passion for the city. God bless, Jessi Harmon
Bob and Carol Parent
July 3rd 2005
Dear John,Ann,Nicole and Tom, our memories of your family are from our years at St. Francis. All of our love and prayers are with you through this terrible tragedy.We know your strong faith will carry you through the days to come. God Bless, Bob, Carol, Molly and Mariah
Lindsey Kerr
July 1st 2005
It has been a long, long time since I last talked to Joe, probably over 10 years. But I have thought of him often in the passing time and still remember him fondly. It makes me so sad to hear of his death.
My clearest memory of him is from our 3rd grade eurythmy class at Steiner. Our teacher was not the nicest woman and she picked on certain students, Joe included. One day she choreographed a piece and made him do it by himself in front of the class. For some reason Joe could not get it right (he was probably too nervous). But he tried so hard. He repeated it over and over until the end of class. All the students left that day with a new respect for Joe (and an intense dislike for our teacher).
That is how I will remember Joe--always trying his best. Joe kept trying even when other students would have given up in tears.
His death now makes me think of the adage "A life lived in fear is a life half lived." Without a doubt Joe lived a full life, no matter how short it might have been. For those of us left behind, it is our responsibility to learn from Joe and carry on his life's work.
All the best Joe. I will always miss you. -Lindsey
Jeff Koch (The Racines)
June 30th 2005
The Joe I remember was the cute little kid following us around the neighborhood. Back then we all called him Joey. I unfortunately did not know Joe in these recent years and for that I'm sad. He always had kindness in his eyes and a huge heart and that I will always remember.
Sarah Barnard
June 30th 2005
I wasn't close with Joe, but I met him when he first became involved with BAMN. I had a few opportunities to work with him and be around his great personality. I'm sure as we all know he will be most remembered for his determination to make a difference. He left us doing what he was passionate about. His drive to make a difference & be heard was astounding. He was a leader and he helped make history & left a mark & my heart as he did many. As I said I hadn't known him that well, but I loved him... he was a stupendous comrade. Love, Sarah
Johnathan Crutcher
June 30th 2005
Well I knew Joe for a short time. He was a good man. I remember when I organized and he said these words. Johnathan thats what were hear for. Making a differnce and thats what you did and keep doing it. We always keep in touch. The thing that hurts the most is to know I will never recieve another phone call from him Love Joe and God bless
RENNE WALLACE
June 30th 2005
JOE WAS A GREAT GUY JOE WAS THE BEST THING THAT HAPPENED TO MY LIFE I LOVED SO SO MUTCH MORE THAN ANYTHING THE MOST GREATEST THING THAT HAPPENED TO ME EVER. I HOPE YOU WILL LET ME SPEEK TOMORROW. JUST LOOK FOR THE GIRL WITH TRISTAN.
Alisha Cato
June 30th 2005
Joe was a big brother to me .Joe was a big part of my life . Joe loved everyone, and we will always remember him in our hearts and our souls. He was a good man. Everybody loved Joe. He treated people with respect.
Noah Burton
June 29th 2005
I went to school and played football with Joe, but we really got close working together over the last few summers. The nature of our work (usually weeding) lends itself to long conversations, and so was perfect for Joe. Whether about our own lives, music, religion, learning, or race issues, Joe always started thought-provoking conversations. I have to admit that sometimes it hurt the quality of our work, but even before he died I was so glad to have had those conversations that strengthened our understanding of one another and our friendship.
We also took trips together to some beautiful places up north over the last couple of summers. It took a lot of convincing from me and Adam to get Joe to go because of his dedication to what was going on in Detroit, but it was clear that the time away was great for him. It's comforting now to remember how much he loved the beach camping we did at Sleeping Bear, or playing in the Little Carp River in the Porcupines. Peace and Love Joe,
Noah
Linda Grant
June 29th 2005
I remember going to watch Joe play football at PHS on Fridays in the fall, sitting with his parents in the stands, and we'd get so excited when he'd be sent out to play! He'd be easy to pick out in the crowd of players, tall and lanky, with the "87" on his jersey. I'll also remember the heated basketball games he'd play with his brother and friends, and his competitive spirit! He may have been the younger brother, but he didn't let that hold him back! Joe's smile and quiet charm will live on in our memories. Peace and love to the Wagners; you can be so proud of him.
Jacqueline Dufek
June 28th 2005
I was so deeply saddened to hear such a thing could happen to such an absolutely wonderful person. I remember Joe in our days growing up at the Georgetown pool. He always had a smile on his face, and always included me, which I thought was nice for an older boy. He was never mean and I was always happy to see him. Such a great family he came from-probably what made him so wonderful and so destined to change the world, Thank you Joe for all you did, your work, strength, courage, love, and smile will never be forgotten.
Karen Florka
June 28th 2005
I did not know Joseph; I have a son at Pioneer and was captured by this story. My grandparents, upon arriving in this country from Malta, lived a block away from Holy Redeemer Church (where my uncle was ordained and my parents were married). This neighborhood held many wonderful memories for us and I'm so deeply saddened by this story and what has happened to your dear son. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time...said with my deepest regard as a parent with old memories of that neighborhood. I know his work will continue.
Katie and Peter Messina
June 28th 2005
We were fortunate to live in Ann Arbor for 9 memorable years in which my son, Peter was able to share summers at Georgetown Swim Club with Joe and his family. I remember all the swimming action, and the truly wonderful qualities that Joe had. I remember him as being polite and patient. We will miss him and pray for your family. Take Care. The Messina's, Katie, Lou, Julia, Peter and Katharine.
Elisabeth Jilek-Pace
June 28th 2005
I have been fortunate enough to know Joe through a very close friendship with his family. Over the years, our families have enjoyed spending holidays and special occasions together, which has always meant so much to all of us. It was always nice to catch up with Joe on Christmas Eve, learning about all of the exciting things he was doing to help others and promote his mission of establishing equality and civil rights. One of the things about Joe that especially stands out in my memory is that Joe was one of the most dedicated people I have ever met. I remember attending the Pioneer football games when Joe was on the team, and seeing him standing there on the sidelines, practically the tallest one, jumping up and down with excitement when his teammates completed a successful play. He was obviously an excellent team player. I have great admiration for the work that he was doing in Detroit, work that few people in his position would have chosen to do. He was a better person than most, and it is a tragedy that he is no longer with us. John, Ann, Nicole, and Tom, you are all like family and I am praying for you and for Joe.
Ashley Eberbach
June 28th 2005
I only knew Joe casually through High school hallways, but I graduated at the same time, and have the same heart felt passion for reforming Detroit. I live in L.A now, working in film...my mother sent me the article because I have always thought about going there to join the fight in Detroit. It brought me to tears when I heard about your son Joe. I will never forget him now, and am honored to have met him. He truley is an inspiration to me and I only hope that my life will mean something like his did. There aren't many people who would do what he did, and though I was only an acquaintance, my admiration for him is strong.
Turquoise
May 6th 2012
All these years have passed and I still think you. You were kind and your smile was radient. I wish I couldve got the opprotunity to tell you how I felt about you. Even while writing this my eyes water up. I will never forget what you taught me. I will keep my head up and strive for greatness. i won't disappoint you. You'll be proud of me. Joe Wagner... I will always love you
October 14th 2011
met Joe in 2003 at Eastern Michigan University. He was my very first friend I made as a freshman in college. Joe was always so gentle, caring, and inspiring. His murder is a crime against humanity, and quite ironic, as he was murder by members of a minority that he fought so hard for. I am thinking about Joe today as the protests on Wall Street are going on. I know Joe would be instrumental in mobilizing youth in our area to speak out. I am compelled to do something about our current state of affairs, and feel I’m given strength by the presence Joe’s loving spirit. Joe was truly an angel, incarnate. And like so many powerful leaders of peace, I am confident he will continue inspiring even more people for years to come after his passing.
Shayla Moy
September 14th 2005
I only knew Joe from the marches we had on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. He was always a really powerful speaker, and his thoughts and dreams were what got me interested. I didnt even know he was gone. I feel terrible. But his life will not be lost in vain. I promise that i will do my best to keep fighting for the same causes that Joe dedicated his life to. I just wanted others to know that he made a huge impact on my life, and he will be remembered forever.
Bianca Hutchinson
August 30th 2005
From the entire BAMN chapter at Bowling Green State University we offer our deepest condolences and we promise we will continue to fight for equality and uphold all of Joseph's dreams. We know that evry time we march he will be there beside us.
Jessi Harmon
August 15th 2005
I am not a family member or a friend but i read Josephs story in the paper and it touched and broke my heart. It was encouraging to read of a young man so involved with inner city work and wanting peace. so his work with out him knowing me was very encouraging and made me even more want to continue to work in the inner city.I know that, that is where God needs to be the most so it is amazing to me when i hear about others and their passion for the city. God bless, Jessi Harmon
Bob and Carol Parent
July 3rd 2005
Dear John,Ann,Nicole and Tom, our memories of your family are from our years at St. Francis. All of our love and prayers are with you through this terrible tragedy.We know your strong faith will carry you through the days to come. God Bless, Bob, Carol, Molly and Mariah
Lindsey Kerr
July 1st 2005
It has been a long, long time since I last talked to Joe, probably over 10 years. But I have thought of him often in the passing time and still remember him fondly. It makes me so sad to hear of his death.
My clearest memory of him is from our 3rd grade eurythmy class at Steiner. Our teacher was not the nicest woman and she picked on certain students, Joe included. One day she choreographed a piece and made him do it by himself in front of the class. For some reason Joe could not get it right (he was probably too nervous). But he tried so hard. He repeated it over and over until the end of class. All the students left that day with a new respect for Joe (and an intense dislike for our teacher).
That is how I will remember Joe--always trying his best. Joe kept trying even when other students would have given up in tears.
His death now makes me think of the adage "A life lived in fear is a life half lived." Without a doubt Joe lived a full life, no matter how short it might have been. For those of us left behind, it is our responsibility to learn from Joe and carry on his life's work.
All the best Joe. I will always miss you. -Lindsey
Jeff Koch (The Racines)
June 30th 2005
The Joe I remember was the cute little kid following us around the neighborhood. Back then we all called him Joey. I unfortunately did not know Joe in these recent years and for that I'm sad. He always had kindness in his eyes and a huge heart and that I will always remember.
Sarah Barnard
June 30th 2005
I wasn't close with Joe, but I met him when he first became involved with BAMN. I had a few opportunities to work with him and be around his great personality. I'm sure as we all know he will be most remembered for his determination to make a difference. He left us doing what he was passionate about. His drive to make a difference & be heard was astounding. He was a leader and he helped make history & left a mark & my heart as he did many. As I said I hadn't known him that well, but I loved him... he was a stupendous comrade. Love, Sarah
Johnathan Crutcher
June 30th 2005
Well I knew Joe for a short time. He was a good man. I remember when I organized and he said these words. Johnathan thats what were hear for. Making a differnce and thats what you did and keep doing it. We always keep in touch. The thing that hurts the most is to know I will never recieve another phone call from him Love Joe and God bless
RENNE WALLACE
June 30th 2005
JOE WAS A GREAT GUY JOE WAS THE BEST THING THAT HAPPENED TO MY LIFE I LOVED SO SO MUTCH MORE THAN ANYTHING THE MOST GREATEST THING THAT HAPPENED TO ME EVER. I HOPE YOU WILL LET ME SPEEK TOMORROW. JUST LOOK FOR THE GIRL WITH TRISTAN.
Alisha Cato
June 30th 2005
Joe was a big brother to me .Joe was a big part of my life . Joe loved everyone, and we will always remember him in our hearts and our souls. He was a good man. Everybody loved Joe. He treated people with respect.
Noah Burton
June 29th 2005
I went to school and played football with Joe, but we really got close working together over the last few summers. The nature of our work (usually weeding) lends itself to long conversations, and so was perfect for Joe. Whether about our own lives, music, religion, learning, or race issues, Joe always started thought-provoking conversations. I have to admit that sometimes it hurt the quality of our work, but even before he died I was so glad to have had those conversations that strengthened our understanding of one another and our friendship.
We also took trips together to some beautiful places up north over the last couple of summers. It took a lot of convincing from me and Adam to get Joe to go because of his dedication to what was going on in Detroit, but it was clear that the time away was great for him. It's comforting now to remember how much he loved the beach camping we did at Sleeping Bear, or playing in the Little Carp River in the Porcupines. Peace and Love Joe,
Noah
Linda Grant
June 29th 2005
I remember going to watch Joe play football at PHS on Fridays in the fall, sitting with his parents in the stands, and we'd get so excited when he'd be sent out to play! He'd be easy to pick out in the crowd of players, tall and lanky, with the "87" on his jersey. I'll also remember the heated basketball games he'd play with his brother and friends, and his competitive spirit! He may have been the younger brother, but he didn't let that hold him back! Joe's smile and quiet charm will live on in our memories. Peace and love to the Wagners; you can be so proud of him.
Jacqueline Dufek
June 28th 2005
I was so deeply saddened to hear such a thing could happen to such an absolutely wonderful person. I remember Joe in our days growing up at the Georgetown pool. He always had a smile on his face, and always included me, which I thought was nice for an older boy. He was never mean and I was always happy to see him. Such a great family he came from-probably what made him so wonderful and so destined to change the world, Thank you Joe for all you did, your work, strength, courage, love, and smile will never be forgotten.
Karen Florka
June 28th 2005
I did not know Joseph; I have a son at Pioneer and was captured by this story. My grandparents, upon arriving in this country from Malta, lived a block away from Holy Redeemer Church (where my uncle was ordained and my parents were married). This neighborhood held many wonderful memories for us and I'm so deeply saddened by this story and what has happened to your dear son. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time...said with my deepest regard as a parent with old memories of that neighborhood. I know his work will continue.
Katie and Peter Messina
June 28th 2005
We were fortunate to live in Ann Arbor for 9 memorable years in which my son, Peter was able to share summers at Georgetown Swim Club with Joe and his family. I remember all the swimming action, and the truly wonderful qualities that Joe had. I remember him as being polite and patient. We will miss him and pray for your family. Take Care. The Messina's, Katie, Lou, Julia, Peter and Katharine.
Elisabeth Jilek-Pace
June 28th 2005
I have been fortunate enough to know Joe through a very close friendship with his family. Over the years, our families have enjoyed spending holidays and special occasions together, which has always meant so much to all of us. It was always nice to catch up with Joe on Christmas Eve, learning about all of the exciting things he was doing to help others and promote his mission of establishing equality and civil rights. One of the things about Joe that especially stands out in my memory is that Joe was one of the most dedicated people I have ever met. I remember attending the Pioneer football games when Joe was on the team, and seeing him standing there on the sidelines, practically the tallest one, jumping up and down with excitement when his teammates completed a successful play. He was obviously an excellent team player. I have great admiration for the work that he was doing in Detroit, work that few people in his position would have chosen to do. He was a better person than most, and it is a tragedy that he is no longer with us. John, Ann, Nicole, and Tom, you are all like family and I am praying for you and for Joe.
Ashley Eberbach
June 28th 2005
I only knew Joe casually through High school hallways, but I graduated at the same time, and have the same heart felt passion for reforming Detroit. I live in L.A now, working in film...my mother sent me the article because I have always thought about going there to join the fight in Detroit. It brought me to tears when I heard about your son Joe. I will never forget him now, and am honored to have met him. He truley is an inspiration to me and I only hope that my life will mean something like his did. There aren't many people who would do what he did, and though I was only an acquaintance, my admiration for him is strong.
