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Joshua J. Lauckhardt, age 47, a resident of Ridge, died unexpectedly, his friend announced via GoFundMe on Wednesday, April 3.
A father of two daughters — one aged 17 and another nearing age — as well as a friend, son, husband, brother, uncle, and cousin, Joshua’s sudden passing was devastating to those who knew him, wrote William Feehan.
“He was a beacon of light in our lives,” Feehan wrote in the description of the GoFundMe he set up for Joshua’s family.
“His infectious humor and genuine care for others touched everyone he met.”
“To grow up around the Lauckhardt family is to grow up around kindness, warmth, selflessness, and a laughter greater than you ever knew possible,” wrote friend Erin Diamantakis in a Facebook post.
Joshua worked as a steamfitter with Local Union 638, located in Queens. But beyond his talent at work, he is remembered for his love of many other things.
“Whether it was through his prowess on the whiffle ball field, his finesse in pickleball, or his playful yet competitive spirit in any backyard game, Josh brought joy and laughter wherever he went,” said Feehan.
He had a keen talent when it came to telling stories and jokes, doing impressions, and a “master” of finding the ideal GIF for any response.
Feehan continued, “His stories never failed to have us all keeled over in laughter, and his GIFs always seemed to capture the perfect situation.”
“He had a way of bringing people together with his wit and charm, making even the dullest moments feel lively and fun.”
Someone who work with Joshua commented on Facebook, "He always had the best music playlist on the job site! Great guy taken way too soon."
He set up the GoFundMe to help assist his family with the financial burdens associated with Joshua’s death, including funds for his services and anything else they may need in this trying time.
As of publication, the fundraiser has gathered just over $64,000 of the $100,000 goal.
“Please,” Feehan asked, “spread the word so that his passing may be known to anyone [whom] he may have touched.”
To view the GoFundMe, click here.
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