90, of Sun City Center, passed away at Hospice
this morning at 5:30 a.m. Thursday November 13, 2014.

The Battles are over for my friend Joe Huckestein, a 90 year old marine.
Joe volunteered at 17 years of age for the Marine Corps and
fought his way through the landings on four islands in the Pacific,
he received four service stars, a Presidential Citation,
a Navy Citation and numerous other awards culminating in the Bronze Star for conspicuous bravery under fire and saving the lives of his fellow squad members.
My prayers and thoughts are with his long time partner Diana Ackland and his loving family.

Semper Fi!
In March I had the great privilege and honor of serving as Master of Ceremonies for the Life Celebration and Birthday of Joe Huckestein a 90 year old marine.
Joe volunteered at 17 years of age for the Marine Corps and fought his way through the landings on four islands in the Pacific, he received four service stars, a Presidential Citation,
a Navy Citation and numerous other awards culminating in the Bronze Star for conspicuous bravery under fire and saving the lives of his fellow squad members.

The presentation yesterday include the ceremonial presentation of the colors,
a flag folding and of course the traditional birthday cake that looked like a forest fire.

BTW Joe can still wear his original uniform.
Sharing moments like this are one of the greatest benefits I have received from public speaking.
I consider it an honor to preside over memorial services for my fallen comrades but to be a part of a program like this which is truly a celebration of life is my favorite activity.
Now I have heard from Diana Ackland, his long time partner,
that Joe is in the last battle of his life and the tide is running against him as he tries one more time to get to the beach head.

Hospice has shared with the family that he will hardly last the weekend
but I am hoping for his seeing one more veteran's day.

It would be special if you are reading this for you to say a final word of thanks to this man who served his country well and honor this patriot as a way of thanking all vets.

He is survived by his significant other of 19 years Diana Ackland,
daughter Sandra L. Ellwood, son Joseph M. Huckestein,
3 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren,
brother Gilbert Huckestein, and sister Marlyn B,
on Diana's side son in law Neal Kelly (Sandi),
sisters; Mary Ware and Dolores Kelley.

The family will be having a memorial service in a later date.