Buck's Camp Cabinets!

The BEFORE - thank you Grandpa VB for the temporary cabinets!

The BEFORE.

As you know, Joel was planning to craft much of the furniture, trim and cabinetry by hand.  With Joel's attention to detail and patience for this, I can only imagine what he had planned.  Luckily, Joel had been thinking about all of these finishing touches well before they were going to be set into action and passed along many of the details and plans to Curty.  

No good work weekend goes without home-cookin'!

That's skill.

Curty trying his hand on the refrigerator panel.

Curty is more of a chainsaw guy and likes cutting big holes in houses and framing up walls - those types of jobs.  So he needed to borrow the expertise of fine cabinet craftsmen with much attention to detail.  Luckily Craig Helberg agreed again to be his partner in crime for this project! 

They scheduled out a block of time to put the bulk of the cabinet work behind them.   This was some serious business. As you can see through the pictures, there were quite a few cabinets to be built and put into Joel's place. From start to finish that included creating them out of the raw wood, sanding their seems down to perfection and applying a thin, even coat of varnish to withstand the wear and tare of the parties soon to come!

The finishing touches!

The man with the plan.

A weeklong job always consists of some old fashioned work breaks and delicious home cooking.  This goes without saying.  Regardless, the finished products are absolutely outstanding.  They compliment the cabin and really complete the look of the kitchen.  Thank you Craig, and all who helped in getting this project underway!

The AFTER. What a change, ey!?

The first set of cabinets are in place! AWESOME.

The finising touches!

Uncle John at the peak - Bill cutting the pieces!

Winsand camera expertise!

These pictures are pretty dated, but I wanted to share them with you all!  These were some of the final pieces of siding to go on the cabin in Oct 2012!  It's come a long way since, and I will put some pictures up soon of the cabinets and other projects inside that have turned Joel's cabin into a cozy home!

Otis, the general contractor.

Happy Birthday Joel!

Nice shades Buck.

Another year to celebrate Joel's Birthday and remember and reflect upon the special people in our lives.  I am sure by now I sound like a broken record, but this time of year is always so special to me because it reminds me of the blessing of Joel's life and time he shared with each and every one of us. 

Joel in our motor-home!

Nitty Gritty in Madison!

 We all shared endless good times that we will carry with us for a life time.  These special moments cannot be surpassed, and I wouldn't trade them for any possession.

Causing trouble with the boys, per ush!

On Joel's Birthday this year, I encourage you to think about the little things that made your day special, reminded you of Joel and put a smile on your face - these moments are what we often take for granted, but truly shape how we feel each and every day.

Happy 28th Birthday Joel!  Cheers!

Music brings back some amazing memories...

I was listening to my normal country music mix alone in the lab, and found that this song pretty much wrapped up how I feel about Joel sometimes... 

Hope you enjoy thinking about the memories that we made together over the years!

"Oh man, we were livin'... we sang and talked and traveled back in time!"

Everyone can think of a time where Joel was story telling and laughing so hard that he spit up.  Or when we are all sitting around remembering some of Joel's more creative moments - these are the memories I love and cherish.  Keep livin' well!

Seymour Scholarship Banquet 2013

We excited to show you another successful year of funding future skilled craftsmen graduating from Seymour Community High School.  We hope you enjoy the video of this year's scholarship banquet.

(CLICK HERE to see the 2012 Seymour Scholarship Banquet)

Thank  you for your continued support of Joel's Craftsman Scholarship, and all you do for to celebrate his life and ongoing legacy. 

Words cannot describe how truly grateful we are.

Thank you.

You can browse more posts related to the scholarship here.

Mano a Mano

In remembrance of Grandpa Marsh and the Marsh-Whitley tradition, Craig had these coasters made for the boys at deer camp.  The second generation of Whitley-Marsh adventures continue, and are as fun and entertaining as ever.  I love these coasters and the picture he chose to be in the forefront.  You can recognize Grandpa through his smile almost immediately, and the body language is that of true friendship and trust.

Mano a Mano.

Hunting Season!

Joel and Dad out in the woods, with a Mano-A-Mano hand shake after Joel got his deer!

Many of you are already out in the chilly woods waiting with your bow for a trophy buck.  Some of you have already achieved your venison goal for the season! I've seen some pretty impressive antler photos online already. We wanted to wish you a happy, safe hunting season this year as opening weekend draws near.

Joel with Dad out to pick up the buck! There's antlers... I promise!

Have a great time in the woods, finding yourself, passing time and taking in all that makes this time of year beautiful and memorable.  As we look forward to the deer season, we remember our guiding angels who will be by your side in the woods.  Jack Marsh, Joel Marsh, Jerry Archer, and all those who loved to spend time in the woods.  The best part about Deer Camp is not the time in the woods, but the quality time with family and close friends the cabin.

Wishing you a memorable Deer Camp this year.

GOOD LUCK!

Tribute to Jack J. Marsh

Jack J. Marsh: A Beautiful Life from July 18, 1926 to August 8, 2013

 

On Joel's blog, we like to talk about the things we are doing in his honor as well as record some of the special memories we have of Joel.  I hope this will provide a record of comfort for all who read it when they periodically visit and look back.  I feel bad that I haven't been as quick to update this blog - but there's always room for improvement and I'm looking forward to a multitude of new posts about some of the things we have been doing at Joel's cabin and beyond.  This post however, I wanted to do something different.  I wanted to pay tribute to my Grandpa Jack J Marsh who recently passed away on August 8th, 2013.  I thought it was only appropriate due to the mutual fondness that Jack and Joel had of one another, that it be included here on Joel's Blog.

Here are the online posts, to keep as a record...

Tribute.com

You only had to talk to Jack for a few minutes to know that he liked to have a good time. My favorite time with him was on an outing and we saw some round bales in a field. Jack said "Did you hear they're going to do away with round bales?" So I asked "Why?" His answer was "Because the cows aren't getting a square meal!" That was Jack. He will be missed. Sue Van Gheem, Friend

Posted by: Sue Van Gheem - Seymour, WI - friend   Aug 15, 2013

 

Tom & family,
I never met Jack but from the many stories Tom has told me I felt as if I knew him well. So sad to hear of the lose of a father, grandfather, friend and wonderful story teller.

Posted by: Thomas Ristau - Green Bay, WI - co-worker of Tom   Aug 12, 2013

I met you Dad several times through John and what a great man he is. Sorry to hear of your loss, but a true testament to his life is the great family he raised. I was glad I got to meet him. John

Posted by: John Schmit - Punta Carnero Ecuador - Friend   Aug 11, 2013

Jack will be truly missed I have many great memories of Jack at the deer camp
Al Totsky

Posted by: al totsky - Friend   Aug 10, 2013

hi marsh family i am sorry to hear about jack he was a very kind man i will miss him dealy take care love chuckie ready

Posted by: chuckie ready - friend   Aug 10, 2013

I have many memories of Uncle Jack; visiting the farm where he was always fixing a motor of some kind, his quick wit and great smile...being a kid I was always impressed with his gold or silver? tooth! I was also impressed with his snowmobiling skills(at the cabin) and his strength when he got buried in the snow. At the farm, Aunt June was usually baking some kind of dessert and Uncle Jack would come in the house for his morning break just when the dessert was coming out of the oven. He was always pleasant and made sure he said a few words to me (usually with a wink) to make me feel important. He was a big guy with a big heart and I'm grateful to have known him.
Thinking of you, Aunt June, and all of Jack's close family.
Jill (great niece)


Posted by: Jill Worley (Watermolen) - Green Bay, WI - niece   Aug 09, 2013

Grandpa was just a kid when he got his hands on one of these!

Legacy.com

August 09, 2013

Love at this time comes in the form of beautiful memories. I have so many with Grandpa Marsh, I could fill a book. He taught me how to plant potatoes, cook pancakes, and live life to the absolute fullest. A smile, joke, and a story from a younger, more adventurous Jack, are my favorite past times... The whole family is inspired by the love of Jack and June... May Grandpa's lessons live on in us!

~ 

Alyce Marsh,

Seymour, Wisconsin

- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/guestbooks/greenbaypressgazette/guestbook.aspx?n=jack-marsh&pid=166334570&page=2#sthash.8E0INt7P.dpuf

August 12, 2013
Dear Mrs. Marsh, Tom, Dale, Curt, John, Hali and Carey... So many years have passed since you were our neighbors but I still remember Mr. Marsh very well. He was a kind and funny man who always made us neighbor kids laugh. You were so blessed to have him in your life! So sorry for your loss. Hugs to you all, Mary Chris (Jobelius) Herzog
~
Mary Chris Herzog,
Suamico, Wisconsin

August 12, 2013
To the Marsh Family
Sorry to hear about your loss. Jack was a wonderful and caring person. I will always remember him and June walked in the mornings in Pulaski. I drove school bus and he always waved at me and gave me a great big smile. He will be sadly missed.
~
Tom & Debbie Wolf,
Bondule, Wisconsin

August 10, 2013
I will always remember Jack when he came in to the Pulaski Coop to have work done in the service station and to visit with all the employees. He was a kind and thoughtful man. Also all of his children and grandkids I met
through him were the best. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
~
Joyce Winkler,
Gillett

August 10, 2013
so sorry to hear of jacks passing,when I work at the nursing home and he came into the dinning room,i would hurry and wait on him,he was just so so nice,loved all r talks,,blessing with your family,,,,Shelby van eyck
~
shelby vaneyck,
seymour, Wisconsin

August 10, 2013
Dear June and family-Sorry about your loss-Jack was a very nice friendly man and he had a great sense of humor.
Deepest sympathy- Dwyn & Don Smits


August 09, 2013
Love at this time comes in the form of beautiful memories. I have so many with Grandpa Marsh, I could fill a book. He taught me how to plant potatoes, cook pancakes, and live life to the absolute fullest. A smile, joke, and a story from a younger, more adventurous Jack, are my favorite past times... The whole family is inspired by the love of Jack and June... May Grandpa's lessons live on in us!
~
Alyce Marsh,
Seymour, Wisconsin

Love at this time comes in the form of beautiful memories. I have so many with Grandpa Marsh, I could fill a book. He taught me how to plant potatoes, cook pancakes, and live life to the absolute fullest. A smile, joke, and a story from a younger, more adventurous Jack, are my favorite past times... The whole family is inspired by the love of Jack and June... May Grandpa's lessons live on in us!

~ 

Alyce Marsh,

Seymour, Wisconsin

- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/guestbooks/greenbaypressgazette/guestbook.aspx?n=jack-marsh&pid=166334570&page=2#sthash.8E0INt7P.dpuf

August 09, 2013

Love at this time comes in the form of beautiful memories. I have so many with Grandpa Marsh, I could fill a book. He taught me how to plant potatoes, cook pancakes, and live life to the absolute fullest. A smile, joke, and a story from a younger, more adventurous Jack, are my favorite past times... The whole family is inspired by the love of Jack and June... May Grandpa's lessons live on in us!

~ 

Alyce Marsh,

Seymour, Wisconsin

- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/guestbooks/greenbaypressgazette/guestbook.aspx?n=jack-marsh&pid=166334570&page=2#sthash.8E0INt7P.dpuf

August 09, 2013

Love at this time comes in the form of beautiful memories. I have so many with Grandpa Marsh, I could fill a book. He taught me how to plant potatoes, cook pancakes, and live life to the absolute fullest. A smile, joke, and a story from a younger, more adventurous Jack, are my favorite past times... The whole family is inspired by the love of Jack and June... May Grandpa's lessons live on in us!

~ 

Alyce Marsh,

Seymour, Wisconsin

- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/guestbooks/greenbaypressgazette/guestbook.aspx?n=jack-marsh&pid=166334570&page=2#sthash.8E0INt7P.dpuf

Grandpa, you are a legend and a legacy we will all keep with us as we grow together with friends and family.  You have given us the example by which we strive to live our lives. Cheers until we meet again and take care of Buck up there, I'm sure he's in need of a fine mechanic.

 Wishing friendship, family and support to all those who read this blog... 

you keep the memories and the love alive.

May God Bless you always. 

 

Buckskin Birthday Gift

Joel and Craig - Mano a Mano

For Joel's Birthday this past year we received a speedy delivery from Craig Whitney - a really unique gift that we are so grateful for.  It's a buckskin with heat pressed lettering and transferred photos from hunting camp.  Whitley is a staple up at camp, and we were so honored to receive such a gift.  The thought and planning it takes to craft something like this, makes it very special

Grandpa Marsh, Joel, Dad, and the whole hunting crew.

Jack J Marsh - Deer Season - Leader and Founder of Marsh Hunting Camp

The Marsh Men and Company

"Joel Buck"

Thank you again for this gift, we are honored to have such wonderful and thoughtful friends.  Grandpa Jack Marsh said, it is the friends you choose who show your true character - we are fortunate to have such great friends from generation to generation. 

Wishing you all a wonderful Fall, and upcoming hunting season. 

-The Marsh Family-

Meeting in Madison

After our last official class of my second year of Medical School I had a quick weekend trip planned to go back home and visit with family to refresh before the big boards study binge.  I flew back to Madison just in time for my parents and Lyssa to pick me up at the airport.  From there we went to Becca's apartment to freshen up for an important family meeting.  Mom, Dad, and I were contacted by one of Joel's recipients and he was going to be in Madison for a routine post operative check up.  We wrote letters to all of the recipients, and received a few responses, but were delighted to hear when one family wanted to meet.

We were so excited to have this opportunity, as we know that it is rare in the community of transplantation.  What an experience to be able to connect with another family that is so close to our own.  We decided that the Great Dane would be an excellent place to meet over dinner.  As we walked in, I knew the couple that were sitting in the entry way with two roses - it had to be them, and it was!  We sat at a booth and started to hear his story.  He told of us his work, career, and beautiful family.  We learned how difficult it can be to be a recipient, especially a lung recipient, who endures countless tests and endless waiting while very ill until a transplant is available.

We also had the opportunity to tell them about Joel and all of the things he was able to accomplish, many of the fun stories that we love to laugh about, and then of course what brought the two families together at the table.  We prepared a frame of a few of our favorite pictures of Joel for them to have to show their family back home who was not able to come with them.  They could tell instantly that he loved the outdoors and working with his hands - something both of our families had in common!

The dinner was full of emotion, tears, and so much happiness.  It was not like talking to strangers, but an extension of your own family - for we were so intrinsically connected before sitting down together.  We left on the promise of keeping in touch and hopefully meeting again some day, either in Madison, or another place!

We are so very grateful for this opportunity, and cannot thank the family enough for their courage and kindness in wanting to meet us.  We think of them very often, as I'm sure they think of us.

Joel's Golden Birthday

Joel R Marsh
February 27, 1986

Joel in the powder up in the UP.

This year would mark Joel's 27th Birthday, which makes this day and celebration all the more dear to our family and friends.  This year we celebrate Joel's Golden Birthday on February 27th.

Joel waving as I learn how to walk.  Matching pants are a nice touch!

Each time February comes around, we are always unsure how we should celebrate and remember Joel.  We particularly like celebrating Joel's life on the day that he first blessed us with his presence.  Birthdays should be fun, and we want to continue this tradition.  In saying this, we try to focus on the many wonderful years, months, and day that he touched our lives - and try not to count the days that we have been missing him so.

This year for Joel's Golden Birthday - if you wanted to do something little or something special in honor of Joel's gifts to us and to others - we thought it would be neat to celebrate by continuing Joel's legacy through his Scholarship Fund at Seymour High School.

Grandpa VanBoxtel and Joel working on the pallets with C&J!

The scholarship is set up to fund students who plan to pursue careers and advanced training in the crafts, skilled trades, and hands-on professions.  Joel loved shop class, and much of the furniture that we have in our home came from his love of labor and the art of woodworking.  We hope to encourage students to pursue these impressive, skilled careers, that may be overlooked by the traditional scholarship requirements.

In saying this, if you wanted to donate something small to the Joel Marsh Scholarship Fund as a way to celebrate his Golden Birthday, you can do so through the mail by making the check payable to:

Joel Marsh Scholarship Fund

We would prefer you send the donations to:
Curt & Deb Marsh
N9590 State HWY 55
Seymour, WI 54165

(so we can appropriately thank you for your generosity...)

Or, if you would like, you can send them directly to Baylake Bank:
Baylake Bank Seymour Financial Center
106 East State Road 54
Seymour, WI  54165

To read more about the scholarship, and see last year's ceremony, please CLICK HERE.

After a long days work at Lake Eva - Joel is the greatest tool in the bucket of the New Holland!

We would like to emphasize that small donations (even $5-$10) go a long way, and in no way do we want to pinch your pocket books in these hard times.  Joel would want to make sure you are able to go out to eat and spend quality time with friends and family - so please do not feel obligated to donate.  We simply wanted to make the information available, since many have asked how to donate to Joel's Scholarship.

We look forward to giving out two scholarships again this year, and will be working with Seymour High School to identify the perfect candidates for the special award.

We cannot thank you enough for your support in this endeavor - as many of you have already given generously to this cause.  We appreciate everything you continue to do for our family and in helping us carryout Joel's dreams and goals.  We are blessed to have you in our lives.


Happy Golden Birthday Joel!

We miss you Buck, but you remain close to us everyday, in that special place in our hearts.

Gift of Life Medal Ceremony

Last summer our family was invited to the annual ceremony of life sponsored by the University of Wisconsin.  This special event cherishes the gift of life and the forward thinking of Wisconsin citizens.  Many of you know, Joel expressed his wishes to our family and to the state to become a donor in the event of his passing. His selfless and honorable gift is something I personally look up to Joel for everyday - what a true hero. 

Governor Scott Walker and UW-Madison welcome you...

In school we have the opportunity to meet and interview organ and tissue recipients, and it is amazing that they can remember the day, down to the minute, of when they received the call that their match and new chance at life arrived.  They retell the phone call as if it were yesterday.  It's truly inspiring how this process can change the lives of both the donor and the recipient - it's a miracle of medicine.

Governer's Mansion in Madison, WI

I unfortunately was unable to attend the ceremony, and I was grateful that Mom and Dad were able to take the afternoon off to go to Madison to accept the award.  Curt was thinking ahead and sent a quick email to the Governor's office to tell them a little about Joel and the blessing that he has been and how humbled we were by his decision to donate life.  In addition to our experience with Joel, we also shared one of the beautiful letters we received from a young girl who was a recipient, and the letter started out with the words "To the Angel that Walked This Earth"  - I couldn't say it better.   It arrived at our doorstep only days before what would have been Joel's 26th Birthday.  The letter swept us off of our feet.

In sharing a small piece of our story, it must have swept the Governor's office off their feet as well, because in speaking about the medal ceremony, and addressing the crowd prior to the awards, the Lieutenant Governor included Joel's story in her speech.  My parent's were stunned and in awe of the opportunity to inspire others and provide hope to other families in a similar situation.  What a neat opportunity for Joel's story, selflessness and compassion to be recognized.  Many families are not as fortunate to hear from recipients as we were - and we are grateful for that everyday.  We hope the many other Wisconsin families are able to heal and find their choice to give life to others supported by all who surround them.

Medal of Life Ceremony - Madison, WI

After hearing that Joel was included in the opening speech at the ceremonies, I wrote to the Governor's office to thank them for their compassion, hard work, and dedication to Wisconsin.  They responded with...

"Alyce,
Thank you for contacting our office.  Please know that I have taken the liberty of printing a copy of your kindly worded letter in anticipation of showing it to the Lt. Governor.  I know that the Lt. Governor was extremely moved by your brother's story and your family's strength.  Friday's event was certainly a very special occasion to honor and remember those loved ones whose sacrifice have given life to others.

Thank you again for taking the time to reach out to our office.

Sincerely... The Lieutenant Governor's Office "

Joel R Marsh: Family. Hope. Life. Honor. Hero.