Page 317 - ShowSight, March 2020

TAKE THE LEAD
IN MEMORY OF JOSEPH NEIL McGINNIS III
A true gentleman in every sense of the word with an exceptional presence, Joe brought happiness and joy to many. His enthusiasm and passion for our world of dogs was abundantly evident whether it was as editor of the magazine or organizing the judges for Meet The Breeds booth competition or one of the many dog related activities he was involved in.
He was multitalented yet humble and whatever he did, he did it with such class and dignity. His cheerful smile was so radiant, with that glint in his eye, it was more than enough to light up any room that he walked into. As an individual, Joe, with his wonderful, caring persona, was so uplifting. He made an impression and left lifelong, wonderful memories for all who had the pleasure of meeting him. He will be deeply missed by all. Our deepest condolences to all his family and friends.
RON AND LORNA MENAKER
The Board of Directors of Take The Lead would like to express our deep sorrow and take a moment to remember our long time friend, Joe McGinnis. While his contributions have been many, the yearly event which defined Joe’s giving nature for us was his “Have A Heart” gala.
For a great many years during the Westminster weekend in NYC, he would rent out a hotel ballroom, provide the music and bring everyone together. All the proceeds from this party benefited Take The Lead and it was all Joe! He quite literally did this due to his belief in our work and his enthusiasm was contagious.
Joe has been a friend to us both personally and professionally and we will miss his smiling face forever. Rest well, Joe.
As I am soaring tens of thousands of feet in the air on my way home from my annual Crufts pilgrimage, I am reflecting on a 30 year friendship with Joe McGinnis. When trying to think of words that described Joe; generous, kind, razor sharp wit, loyal, dedicated—But the one word that encompasses it all for me is friend. I will miss my sweet friend more than you will know. Godspeed, Joe.
SUSAN SHEPHARD, DEJA VU PEKINGESE ROM
I was one of the fortunate people to know Joe. I really only knew him through our show, the Kennel Club of Palm Springs. He came out every year because it was one of his favorite shows to work and one of his favor- ite places to visit. I was always his contact at our shows to make sure everything was set for him. So we got to know each other well. He was a joy to work with and talk dogs.
We always made sure we had time to talk, and maybe gossip just a little. As soon as he got his license to judge Pekes, I had him judge one of his first assignments at our show. He was so happy to judge our show, because he had been here for so many years. He was a pleasure to work with and always very happy, pleasant and kind. I will always miss him at our shows, it just won’t be the same.
We lost a very sweet person, and a good dog man.
DARRYL VICE, KENNEL CLUB OF PALM SPRINGS
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