Joe’s journey began in Budapest in 1936. As a little boy, he experienced Hitler’s army occupy his town and his home. The city was “liberated” by the Russians in a brutal battle. His family lived on carrots, in the basement. His grandfather was shot in the back at their gate, when he arrived home past curfew. Joe’s father was kidnapped off the street and was missing for 9 months, while Russian officers lived in his home.
The revolt in 1956 was Joe’s opportunity to flee, and his father helped him get a ride to the border. Joe literally ran for his life to escape the Communists, leaving everything behind. He knew no one in America and didn’t speak the language. He came within 2 weeks of being penniless and homeless until he finally got a job as a dishwasher. With his typical hard work and perseverance, he rose to be a busboy, waiter and, at last, a maître ‘d in prestigious Hollywood restaurants. During this time, he served in the American army, and found his love for cooking. He also became a real estate broker. So began his American dream.
Joe eventually became franchise owner of Copper Penny Restaurant in Lawndale, California. There he met, fell in love and married Pat. They welcomed a beautiful daughter, Patty, four years later. His son, Roland, completed their family. In following years, they owned and operated Humble Joe’s Eating Place in Gardena and later, Old Mill Café in San Diego.
During his retirement, Joe excelled in his many hobbies: decoy, bird and fish carving, cooking, landscaping, gardening, painting, woodworking and building. He and Pat enjoyed many road trips across his beloved America. For over 20 years they went to Maine to visit Patty and her husband, Chris Ward, and to spoil the grandchildren, Abby and Jack. In Maine, they fell in love with swimming with the family, and kayaking in Loon Pond. They made many friends there and treasured those summers. They enjoyed winters in California with wonderful old and new friends.
Joe was a very creative and dynamic person. He is sorely missed by his dear friends and family.
He is survived by his wife, Pat, and his son, Roland, his daughter, Patty, and grandchildren, Abby and Jack.
