Rams Partner with Dream Foundation to Make Lifelong Fan’s Dream a Reality
On May 12, 2014, a letter that opened with “To whom it may concern” made its way to the front office of the St. Louis Rams. The seemingly generic opening line was quickly met by words of weight and the kind of storyline that reminds you that football is far more than a game. It’s a way of life. And a man lovingly known as “Papa Joe” lives the life to prove it.
A resident of Claremont, California, Joseph has gained a reputation of being everyone’s “papa.” His nickname alone elicits feel-good imagery of a dependable man with a passionate presence and steadfast spirit, but it’s his actions that provide the means to take it from mere imagery to anecdotal proof. This is particularly true when it comes to his love for the St. Louis Rams.
Joseph’s steadfast character made him a perfect candidate to be a fan for the long haul. He has never wavered in his commitment to the Rams. Come rain or shine, nosebleed seats or bar stools, “Papa Joe” has always been there for his Rams.
Now at 71 years old, Joseph battles daily to win the fight against a life-threatening illness. Throughout the past year, the progressive nature of his condition became increasingly evident to the point he feared it could potentially be his last football season.
“That’s what started this journey,” said his daughter, Debbie Weissbuch. “When the season schedule came out, my dad indicated he thought it would be his last. That’s when I thought, ‘Okay, what can I do?’” (Read more)