Joe was born as a Korean but lived and grew up for 17 years on Saipan and became what we remembered of him until that last day he left us.
“Joe was loved and truly was part of our Island Community…in his own special way…. He roamed Garapan freely, and exercised his right as a free person in America. In Sung Lee is proof that any one of us can live the life we chose to live.” (Words from Mr. Thomas Thornburgh, NMPASI Projects Specialist)
We believe that it was from the support and love from the people that Joe was able to live the life he wished to live.
The funeral was held on Oct. 22, 2010. People who loved him and cared for him shared their sadness and pain with us. Koreans, Chamorros, statesiders, Japanese, Chinese, etc. Although different in nationality and race, everyone was gathered as one island community to say their last goodbyes to Joe.
Therefore, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to all the people who were there for Joe at his funeral.
A sincere thank you to Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan who personally wrote a letter of condolence, and former Gov. Juan N. Babauta who had been a good adviser to Joe when he was alive for participating in his burial.
Last but not least, to Mr. Ham Hambros, the driver of the vehicle. We were informed that he is only 19 years old. We do not have any hatred or resentment toward him. He is also a part of the community that Joe had once lived. We also take part in his sadness.
Especially in this time of difficulties on our island of Saipan, may God bless Joe and this place forever.
CHANG SUB LEE
& the rest of the family
of In Sung A.K.A Joe
