So Long, Joe
Eugene drummer and swell guy passes
Posted by: John Chandler on Oct 18, 2010 at 04:00PM
6 Comments
Just learned of the passing of Eugene drummer Joe Brooks. His untimely death left everyone who knew him shaken and saddened.
He played drums with beer-basted Eugene punks Billy Jack seemingly forever and I worked with him at a copy shop for a whole year. He was bright, kind, and a really funny guy, the perfect comrade with whom to while away day after day of mind-numbingly repetitive toil. At one point, Joe, guitarist Bruce Hartnell of the Detonators, and I talked about forming a band called AC/Devo but it never happened. Joe, you are missed.
Just happened to find this video of Joe and his fellow members of Billy Jack singing an Irish tune at a St Paddy’s Day show 17 years ago.
I never knew the guy, but sorry to hear the news just the same. Nobody should die young or leave a family behind. Heart goes out to his family.
I recall Joe from my days in Eugene. Didn’t know him, but he always seemed like a good guy. He’s the second avid runner I know who’s died “in action” the past few months. I’m sorry for the loss to his family and friends—47 is far too young.
Just heard of Joe’s death and was crushed. What a great guy. Knew him from Billy Jack/Wayne/Excelsior Cafe/Kinkos/Max’s days circa 1992.
As with many, Joe floated many free copies and sticker sheets my way, late at night over good conversation.
I will remember him for his dry wit and infectious laugh and smile.
My heart goes out to his family. Extended as it was. But that was Joe.
Sandino’s would not have been Sandino’s, without Joe. He knew when
to help out. I loved teaching him & Vanessa how to slurp a tequila out of a
red licorice straw. A funky dart player, too. I will miss his spunk.
Thank you for posting this John. Joe spoke of you fondly. Carol, those were fun times! Thanks for the memory!
@Vanessa: Thanks. Joe was one of those people who you see less frequently as time passes but whenever you do it’s just like old times.