Joseph's Memory Wall 
            We encourage you to share your most beloved memories of Joseph here, so that the family and other loved ones can always see it. Share your favorite stories or comment on those shared by others.
            
            
            
            
                                                                                                                                        
                                                        Rest in peace, Joe and God’s comfort and blessings to your family at this sad time.  Joe fought the good fight and now he is free of his earthly health struggle.  Many of my dear friends and cohorts from BCSD have come and gone and are no longer with us.  Sgt. Garski reminds me of this and also Sgt. Bill Barnett (his US Air Force brother) is brought back in my memory.  My friendship with Joe goes all the way back to his early patrol days at SJPD. His “espirit de corps” demeanor said everything about his team spirit and leadership skills among his fellow officers.  I missed him after retiring from the county. This veteran was truly a joy and honor to work with!  Warm regards to Joe’s family…    Ray and Mary Damaske  Stevensville, MI
 
                            
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Ray Damaske 
                                    February 3rd, 2024 at 10:31am 
                                
                             
                                                     
                                                                                                    
                                                        It is with much sadness that I heard about the passing of Joseph Garski.     Joe and I worked together at SJPD in the road patrol division for over a decade. We followed a similar trajectory in leaving SJPD and going to work for the Berrien County Sheriff's Department.     Joe was one of the most intuitive LEO's with which I have ever worked. Joe could spot a criminal from miles away and have them in cuffs before you knew it.     I learned a lot from Joseph for which I am ever thankful. My regret is that I was never able to tell him what I thought about him.  I left law enforcement and we lost contact with one another.     Nancy, I know he adored you and his girls. His family was the reason he worked so diligently during his career. He wanted nothing but the best for you.     Joe was a Cop's Cop and I was lucky to have spent time working with a such a superb Law Enforcement Officer and a gentleman!    Jan Edwards   Dallas, Texas
 
                            
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Jan Edwards 
                                    February 1st, 2024 at 2:05pm 
                                
                             
                                                     
                                                                                                    
                                                        With many thanks and heartfelt sympathy to Joseph's family. God bless the Garski family during this transitional time.
 
                            
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Josephine Smith 
                                    February 1st, 2024 at 9:47am 
                                
                             
                                                     
                                                                                                                                                            
                                                        So very sorry to hear the sad news. Joe was one heck of a nice guy, would give you the shirt off his back even if it was the only shirt he had. GOD has a peaceful and beautiful place for him.
 
                            
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Spero 
                                    January 30th, 2024 at 10:34am 
                                
                             
                                                     
                                                                                                    
                                                        Nancy, so sorry to hear of Joe's passing.  I worked with him for many years at the BCSO.  Always friendly and took time to talk and say hi.  He will be missed.
 
                            
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Gayle Bassett 
                                    January 30th, 2024 at 9:36am 
                                
                             
                                                     
                                                                                                    
                                                        So sorry to hear of Joe's passing. I met Joe 55 years ago when he worked with my dad on the SJPD. It's been an honor and a privilege to serve 25 years with Joe as a board and team member of the Critical Incident Stress Management team. A great man, will surely be missed.
 
                            
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Jack Goodwin 
                                    January 30th, 2024 at 6:50am 
                                
                             
                                                     
                                                                                                    
                                                        So sorry to hear of Joe's passing. On behalf of BHHS Class of 1964 sending sympathies to his family.
 
                            
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Nancy Steele Butzbach 
                                    January 29th, 2024 at 9:26pm 
                                
                             
                                                     
                                                                                                    
                                                        So sorry to hear this. Joe was first rate; a dedicated public servant and a great colleague. Many memories of Joe, all good.I’ll miss him.     Dan Deja
 
                            
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Dan and Sharon Deja 
                                    January 29th, 2024 at 5:52pm