In Memory

Joseph M Politzer

Mentor High School
Class of 1995


Deceased Classmate: Joseph Politzer
Date Of Birth:
Date Deceased: 11-22-2009
Age at Death: 32
Cause of Death:
Classmate City:
Classmate State:
Classmate Country: USA
Survived By:

 

Joseph M. Politzer

 

A Mass to celebrate the life of Joseph M. Politzer, age 32, will be 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 3, 2009, in the chapel at St. Gabriel Church, 9925 Johnnycake Ridge Road, Concord Township.

On Nov. 22, 2009, while on an extended trip through Southeast Asia, Mr. Politzer lost his life in a tragic motorbike accident.

From a young age, Joe wanted to travel and see the world. After attending the University of Cincinnati, he realized that a traditional career would not satisfy his passion for travel and adventure. Joe worked in the service industry, at Ruby's in Cincinnati and at the Chop House in Chicago. In addition to the trip he was on in Southeast Asia, Joe's travels took him to North, South, and Central America, and Europe.

After living in Chicago for six years, Joe moved to New Zealand in August 2008 to embark on his life's dream -- extensive travel though Southeast Asia. In addition to New Zealand, Joe traveled through Australia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia the Philippines, and last -- Laos. He was due home soon to celebrate Christmas 2009 with family and friends.

 

Joe was loved by many and will be deeply missed. His character and personality allowed him to attract friends wherever he went. Hundreds of friends around the world have expressed their sorrow and grief at Joe's passing. Joe can be best described by the comments made by family and friends: best brother that ever was, phenomenal spirit, kind-hearted, best weeks-months-years of my life, vivacious, perfect gentleman, romantic, adventurous, best of the best, always original, infectious laugh, what a legend, living life and seeing the world, charming maniac, most amazing man, human dynamo, caring and genuine, and king of fun and smiles.

Joe leaves behind his mother, Laura Hart (Jack Melvin); brothers, Andrew and Tyler Hart; sisters, Michelle and Nicole Hart; grandparents, Rita and Gene Politzer; nephew, Alan; aunt, Julie (Ed) Kunas; and cousins, Megan and Molly. Of great importance to Joe were friends, Shawn, Lindsey, Steven, and Jonny.

Jonny, you are forever part of our family.

To paraphrase a friend, Ryan: Joe was a soulmate to everyone, touching everyone's life and making them feel special. Adventurous, some might say, but he was more -- a shepherd of sorts to all. Like always Joe, you lead the way -- we will see you soon!

The family requests that no flowers be sent. Joe had deep concern for impoverished children. All donations (c/o Laura Hart IMO Joseph Politzer at any Huntington Bank) will be forwarded, with the assistance of the American Embassy, to an organization that addresses those needs.