Joseph F. Mayer (1922-2001), member of the Bavarian Verein Alpengruen in Rochester, NY, passed away on Sat., Nov. 10 after a long battle with Parkinson's disease and congestive heart failure. He is the father of Teresa Mayer, President and Vortaenzerin; Andrew Mayer, Vorplattler; and Stephen Mayer, Figurentanzleiter of the Bavarian Verein Alpengruen. Joseph's wife of 53 years, Loretta, is also a member of the club and served as its president for 13 years.

Joseph's parents were 2 of the founding members of the Alpengruen back in 1932 and Joe served as its President and Vorplattler for many years. He loved to dance and taught the Schuhplattler to each of his 4 children. He and Loretta also traveled to Syracuse frequently to teach the Schuhplattler and start the Bavarian Club Almenrausch. Unfortunately, his illnesses limited him from doing what he loved to do the most in the last few years of his life. We thank God for the gifts that Joseph gave to the German community through his love of the Schuhplattler. We will certainly miss him. May he rest in peace.