The friends of Joe at the Black Box in the Washington Center March first 2023.

 

 

Rememberences 1922 -2022
Olympian Obituary

I'm not sure how you knew Joe Baque. But he was my teacher I miss him dearly. Thanks for the video's of him. I cried when watching. They bring back memories of him.

Tom Johnson

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I once asked Joe to play a favorite song of mine from the 30's. After that, every time he saw me in the audience, he would play it. Such a kind and thoughtful soul. Joe had a whole songbook in his head and he played each tune with passion and skill. On top of that he could transpose to just about any key right on the spot and play the number so beautifully. He was and is still such an inspiration to all of us who play the piano.

Judy (Lehmann) Avery

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Joe is simply one of the best people in the world.
He was an amazing musician- every time he played his joy infused the music and enveloped the room. When he played with other musicians and vocalists, he treated others with such respect and enjoyed each highlighting the others.
A generous soul, he loved young people and helped to raise, inspire, and teach throughout his life.
His love of family was at his core.
My gratitude for Joe and his family- most of all Joe was an inspiration- artist and a friend. I know thousands who will say with sincerity, one of the best of us.
My best to all who loved him.

Sincerely,
Sandy Revesz

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I live in Joe's former house with my husband Christopher J. Earle.

Its just such a pleasure listening to him play at least on the computer.

It feels special to know he may have practiced in the past in my house where I'm sitting now looking out at trees. We have beautiful trees here. The state even set aside some trees as old growth or carbon sequestration here.

My condolences to his family and friends!
Bonnie Blessing-Earle

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Joe was not only the greatest musician I ever knew but also the one with the smallest ego. Joe was so kind and humble. Even though he was obviously the most talented and gifted musician in the room he made you feel like you were the greatest! I was always embarrassed to call myself a musician in his presence but not because of anything Joe did or said.

Many years ago I interviewed him on KAOS-FM radio and a listener called in and complimented Joe, live on-air, that Joe was the greatest jazz musician in Olympia. After the caller rang off Joe said he didn't consider himself to be a jazz musician. I was incredulous and asked Joe what kind of musician he was. He answered that he was a commercial musician because he played "whatever you want." Indeed, Joe would play whatever you wanted. No ego! While most musicians I've worked with argue about what to play and get angry when I'd make suggestions about their performance - Joe was such a professional. He was more than happy to play "whatever you wanted!"

I learned so much about music and life from him. I'm a better person, better musician, and better music teacher for having met him. He wasn't even Jewish but he spoke better Yiddish than I which he never let me forget. I feel so fortunate for having met him. RIP Joe. I'll miss you.
Jon Epstein

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Joe Baque was one of the last of the old school musicians and pianists who knew and could memorize all the styles and genres and nuances about a particular piece of music and what would work best for a particular situation or individual. It was truly a magical experience to have taken a couple of lessons from him.
Dave Cook
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What a gracious man Joe was most of all a wonderful friend to me and musician. His knowledge was extensive. He will be missed in our community. Dave McCrary
Dave McCrary
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After knowing Joe and Carol for almost 30 years and enjoyed his music whenever I was there, I discovered he had played with my Uncles in New York back in the 30's and 40's and he told me when he was a mere child they would sneak him in to play in the 'speakeasies' and give him 50 cents and usher him out the back door! We miss you Joe and grateful for having known you..Carol we will always be here for you..Sam
Sam
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I worked at Carnegie´s Restaurant when Joe played the piano. He was a treasure. My condolences to his family.
Adi Khalsa
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Dear Carol,
You and I met in passing while we both worked for WA State. What I remembered from out brief talks were your love of this talented and creative man. May Joe rest in eternal peace. And may the memories of your mutual love and your many years together bring you peace. My deepest sympathy.
Janelle Baldwin
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We love you Joe
Thanks for the joy
Jay T nikki Finn
Jay t scott
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Joe was a man beloved by all who knew him ... RIP
Joe Illing
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A very special human. Rest In Peace, Joe.
Michelle S Johnson
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I have fond memories of Joe in his beret picking up John from Great Beginnings Childcare Center. He has left innumerable memories, a beautiful son and loving family and friends. What a great life he had!
Janie Fish
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Joe set the standard for kindness and understatement while able to weave magic on the keys in every setting. With every viewing and every encounter, a peaceful, easy nature filled your heart and soul. Joe was a friend to everyone he met and the twinkle in his eye the magic we all seek and know is inside us only waiting for us to rekindle it whenever possible. This man's music will certainly live forever in our memories and that vast immortal experience that makes the beyond. Love to all.
John Kersting
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JOE. WAS ONE A SPECIAL PERSONAL FRIEND TO ME FOR MANY YEARS. HE HAD GREAT COMPASSION AND EMPATHY. HE WAS ACCEPTING OF YOU JUST AS YOU ARE. HE TAUGHT ME A GREAT DEAL ABOUT MUSIC AND LIFE. I ALWAYS SAUGHT HIS ADVICE ON MUSIC AND HIS WISDOM ABOUT LIFE. I WILL Miss him.
Dave McCrary
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