Lupita and I were devastated to learn today of the sudden unexpected passing yesterday of our dear longtime friend Joe Wells of Casa Marina. We enjoyed many extremely good meals at his restaurant, and I enjoyed many mornings playing tennis with him and a small group of friends in Ixtapa over the years as well as a few games of poker and many atardeceres sitting on his porch with family and friends, slurping chelas and enjoying the beauty and good vibes of the place together. Que en paz descanses, mi muy estimado y queridísimo amigo.

Shocked and saddened by the sudden and unexpected death of Joe Wells. I met him 8 or 9 years ago when Casa Marina was still exchanging books to read. He was welcoming, gregarious and outspoken as he and I tackled the issues of the day. Earlier this year, in February, I stopped by to exchange a book and chat with Joe and was unable to do either. Unfortunately, I didn't return to Casa Marina on this trip and I'm upset with myself that I didn't get to see Joe one last time. Rest in peace, Joe Wells.

Lupita and I were devastated to learn today of the sudden unexpected passing yesterday of our dear longtime friend Joe Wells of Casa/Cafe Marina. We enjoyed many extremely good meals at his restaurant, and I enjoyed many mornings playing tennis with him and a small group of friends in Ixtapa over the years as well as a few games of poker and many atardeceres sitting on his porch with family and friends, slurping chelas and enjoying the beauty and good vibes of the place together. Que en paz descanses, mi muy estimado y queridísimo amigo.

This is almost too much to bear.
I stopped by Casa Marina almost every day last week to say hello.
He was never there and the waiters and waitresses just mentioned he was 'upstairs'- meaning above the restaurant, where I didn't even really know he lived with his family.
We shared many many stories of his days as a 'gangbanger' in Oakland, CA where I lived for many years.
I am rocked!
shocked!
And it makes almost everything else, even my little BS, pale in comparison.
I hope there is a 'tribute'.
I will belt out a Rolling Stones tune...

Lupita and I were devastated to learn today of the sudden unexpected passing yesterday of our dear longtime friend Joe Wells of Casa Marina. We enjoyed many extremely good meals at his restaurant, and I enjoyed many mornings playing tennis with him and a small group of friends in Ixtapa over the years as well as a few games of poker and many atardeceres sitting on his porch with family and friends, slurping chelas and enjoying the beauty and good vibes of the place together. Que en paz descanses, mi muy estimado y queridísimo amigo.