Message from Janinne
May 1, 2017 2:22 PM
I met Mr. Metzger when my son, who was 5 at the time, visited Hearthstone with his Montessori class to sing Christmas songs. Mr. Metzger was so kind and personable. He talked with us for quite some time as we waited for the others to arrive. He told us about coming here from Germany and we bonded over my German heritage. He was pleased when I told him that my family had thrown a German-themed party when Benedict XVI became pope. He told me where I could go to learn more about my genealogy and seemed very interested in learning the results. He asked if he could give my boys some of the little packages of cookies that he had with him, and they were very thankful to him when I agreed. He knew the others at Hearthstone well. When I had been talking to a friend of mine who lived there, he suggested that I ask her about her children, as he knew the beautiful story of how many she had in her family. I never did get to visit Mr. Metzger again as I had planned to, but it was a blessing to have met him. May he rest in peace.
Message from Pastor Randy Waller
April 27, 2017 2:35 PM
Joe was a good friend. We enjoyed many hours together at Hearthstone talking about Hungary, his work, and his family. Some of the best times were with Elizabeth. I will miss his greeting of, "Hello, Rev!" God bless all of you.
Message from John Nett
April 27, 2017 2:14 PM
Paul and family, your very faithful/kind/hard-working/loving parents Joe and Elizabeth are now happy in heaven together. What a special couple they were and you were very fortunate to have them as parents. I remember my visits to the Metzger residence in the 1970s and your parents were always nice to me. Elizabeth's baking was out of this world and Joe could fix anything. So glad we're friends and that I had the honor of meeting your parents . Stay strong, take care and keep the Faith.
Message from Tom Fowler
April 27, 2017 1:52 PM
I had known Joe for about forty years. His son, Paul had played basketball with my son Jeff. He was a caring and loving father, strict in the old country sort of way.
Paul, although I have not seen you in many years, those days on the court I have not
forgotten. God bless you and yours.
Tom Fowler
Message from Deb Jourdan Diedrich
April 27, 2017 6:35 AM
I am so sorry for your loss, but you have such beautiful memories. Joe is truly missed in the neighborhood. His smile, his kindness, his love of all. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Message from Kathy Thomas
April 27, 2017 5:17 AM
I always enjoyed talking with Joe whenever I stopped by the LaBays. He always had a warm friendly smile and a good story to tell.
Message from The Trost Family
April 26, 2017 8:39 PM
Joe will be missed by our family. More courage to you to be without him.
Message from Betty
April 25, 2017 7:23 AM
Thinking of all of you today. Your dad and grandpa was a gentle, smiling spirit. Always with a story and a warm hug. He is missed already.