Obituary for Joseph Raetz
Joseph Western (formerly Raetz) of Ridgewood, New Jersey, passed away on April 1, 2023. Joseph (known as “Joe” to his friends) was regarded by many as a talented artist and photographer.
Throughout his life, Joe cultivated and brought together an eclectic group of friends and confidants from diverse walks of life and geographic locals. Joe made an immediate and lasting impression on all those who met him. Joe’s influence was first felt by others while growing up as a teenager in central Florida, and his social group expanded as he moved back to New Jersey, where he was born. Joe’s people remember him as a leader in thought regarding all things related to independent and alternative music, food, film, and culture. In addition, Joe was highly spiritual and a pacifist who lived according to his core beliefs.
Although he had specific tastes, he savored the opportunity to discuss new ideas and have deep philosophical conversations with those around him. In recent years, Joe continued working on his photography and deeply immersed himself in art, literature, and philosophy.
Joe is survived by his mother, Sara Raetz; brother Jason Raetz; aunt Elizabeth Ogle; and uncle Vincent Ogle. Unfortunately, Joe also leaves too many devout friends to be listed here.
Family and friends have organized a GoFundMe account to help pay for Joe’s funeral expenses and would be grateful for your continued support. https://www.gofundme.com/f/funeral-expenses-for-joseph-western
Throughout his life, Joe cultivated and brought together an eclectic group of friends and confidants from diverse walks of life and geographic locals. Joe made an immediate and lasting impression on all those who met him. Joe’s influence was first felt by others while growing up as a teenager in central Florida, and his social group expanded as he moved back to New Jersey, where he was born. Joe’s people remember him as a leader in thought regarding all things related to independent and alternative music, food, film, and culture. In addition, Joe was highly spiritual and a pacifist who lived according to his core beliefs.
Although he had specific tastes, he savored the opportunity to discuss new ideas and have deep philosophical conversations with those around him. In recent years, Joe continued working on his photography and deeply immersed himself in art, literature, and philosophy.
Joe is survived by his mother, Sara Raetz; brother Jason Raetz; aunt Elizabeth Ogle; and uncle Vincent Ogle. Unfortunately, Joe also leaves too many devout friends to be listed here.
Family and friends have organized a GoFundMe account to help pay for Joe’s funeral expenses and would be grateful for your continued support. https://www.gofundme.com/f/funeral-expenses-for-joseph-western