Our dearest Joe, you were taken from us way too soon… Riding your skateboard and a truck hit you, then drove off. The driver didn’t bother to call 9-1-1. They left you to die and a second car ran over your head. If they would have called, Joe, you would be alive today. Our hearts bleed every day for you. This tragedy has torn our family apart.

You were born on August 16, 1998 at 10:20 a.m. and had just turned 16. You were learning how to drive. You loved to play your guitar, especially for your sisters, Brittany and Savannah. You loved going to the skate park, concerts, and hanging out with friends. You knew you had your future career already in mind by being a gamer – “Joe Ghost” – on YouTube. Then boom, hit and run on November 1, 2014 at 10:20 p.m.

Every time you met a person in need, your words would change their mood. You always, always had the secret to help cheer someone up, especially your friends. Joe, your hugs were the best healing, therapeutic thing in the world.

The only good experience that has come out of this is that you had decided to be an organ donor, and now, two people have sight. Your name is engraved on the Celebration of Life Monument at Library Square in Salt Lake City. Our family connection with Gorgon Skatelights has also been a blessing. Please, everyone that rides a bike, skateboard, and who enjoys walking and running, visit their website and sign the petition to save other lives.

We know that if you were able to share a message with others, it would be, “Don’t ride in the streets. Wear bright clothes if you are riding at night. Take the time to be aware of your surroundings. Like everyone and love your family because life is short. Yesterday is history and tomorrow is a mystery, so enjoy! I choose you!”

Love your hugging-you-right-this-second family,

Casey (mom), Joe (dad), Brittany and Savannah (sisters), Kelly (grandma), Grandma Fackrell, Ed (grandpa), Nate (uncle), Lauren (aunt), Nason, Zane, Brooklynn, and Kennedy (cousins), and many, many friends and family