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In memory of

Joseph "Joe" L. Scarpaci, Jr.

Blacksburg, Virginia
January 13, 1955 - December 30, 2023
Jan 13, 1955 - Dec 30, 2023
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Red heart Sandy D’Alesandro Huber
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Such devastating news. Joe and I shared an office in 1981/82 at the University of Florida. I had just started in the Master's program in Geography and he was working on his doctorate. We played racquetball and sometimes listened to Kenny Loggins. Learned how well Gilda cooked.  One of the few people I made special efforts to try to stay in touch wife through the years.  Just had brunch with both Joe and Gilda in November and he was such a proud grandfather and looking forward to more grandkids.  He was one of a kind.  I will truly miss him.
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I am very sorry to learn of Joe's passing. It was just one year ago this week that I had the opportunity to talk with Joe in Tucson at the 2023 Conference of Latin American Geography. Joe was a passionate and dedicated geographer of many elements, but especially of Cuba, which he freely shared his expertise on. My heartfelt thoughts go to your family.
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I am very saddened to learn the news of Joe's passing. My deepest condolences to his family. I had the pleasure of working with Joe on a VT study abroad course focused on food security and food sovereignty in Cuba. Joe not only helped organize the study visit in Cuba, but he also came to class to share his expertise and passion with the students. Joe was many things, especially generous, good humored, and full of spark at every turn. He will be dearly missed.

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Always with a smile
2018, Havana, Cuba
Always with a smile
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Joe leading a walking tour in…
2018, Havana, Cuba
Joe leading a walking tour in Havana on our first day.
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Joe and our Virgnia Tech Stud…
2018, Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), Josh Birmingham Parkway, Charlotte, NC, USA
Joe and our Virgnia Tech Study Abroad group about to board our flight to Cuba. This was a semester long course with study trip to Cuba to learn about food security and food sovereignty in Cuba.
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Ahh, bueno, perfecto!
2018, Havana, Cuba
Ahh, bueno, perfecto! — with El Maestro Catador
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An expert's inspection
2018, Havana, Cuba
An expert's inspection — with Joe Scarpaci
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At cafe with VT alums on Afro…
2018, Havana, Cuba
At cafe with VT alums on Afro-Cuban Experience tour — with VT alums
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Commentary on Central Plaza
2018, Havana, Cuba
Commentary on Central Plaza — with Joe and VT students on Afro-Cuban experience tour
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Tour commentary in pocket pla…
2018, Havana, Cuba
Tour commentary in pocket plaza — with Joe and Va Tech students
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Plaza de la Revolution
2018, Havana Cuba
Plaza de la Revolution — with Afro-Cuban tour group led by Joe S.
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Joe in his element - at a Hav…
2018, Havana, Cuba
Joe in his element - at a Havana cafe — with Joe Scarpaci
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I was shocked and saddened to get the news. Obviously a tremendous loss to his extensive webs of family, friends, academic colleagues, former students, multiple contacts in Cuba, and all the numerous "alums" of the dozens of tours he guided over the years.  He will be remembered by each, in their own way, but collectively, he will be remembered as an exceptional and unforgettable person and presence.  Thank you Joe! for what you imparted to us all.
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Dear Scarpaci's - I was so sad to hear about Joe's passing. Although it's been years since I've had an opportunity to spend time with Joe, I can quickly recall his huge heart and kind smile.  As a child I remember being inspired by his enthusiasm and charisma, and as an adult was impressed by the expertise and accomplishments he quietly garnered- the most important in his eyes surely being his wonderful family. 

I'm praying that God brings you peace in this difficult time, and that you find ongoing comfort through the knowledge of the positive difference he's made in the lives of all those he encountered.

Much love and heartfelt condolences

John 

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After a day at the beach
2014, Oak Island, NC, USA
After a day at the beach — with Joey Scarpaci
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Cousin Joe impressing us with…
2017, Rosecliff, Bellevue Avenue, Newport, RI, USA
Cousin Joe impressing us with his poses! A great weekend with our families ❤️🙏🏼
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Created with love by Michael Scarpaci (Joe's son) and Cristina Scarpaci.
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Joseph "Joe" Scarpaci, Jr.