In Loving Memory of Joe Leier

Joe's immense heart, boundless energy and unwavering dedication to helping others made him a invaluable member of the international medical community.

He was indispensable as the bio-med tech expert who kept all the equipment running smoothly for surgery teams and clinics -- from the USA to Central America to war zones in Europe and various to medical facilities in various African countries.

Within the last few years he had been vetted and approved to join the Emergency Response Team of Samaritan's Purse, going to various countries.

He contributed not only his time and skills, but his infectious enthusiasm inspired all those around him.

And Joe could always be counted upon to bring levity with jokes and skits and his skill playing of five different stringed instruments. (His singing voice was pretty good too!)

His death was caused by a form of aggressive "African Malaria" that is one of the oldest and most aggressive forms of malaria, rare in Guatemala where Joe lived.

Apparently, he contracted this malaria from his last trip to South Sudan three weeks ago. Although it required 40 hours of travel each way, Joe loved going to the little hospital there and was looking forward to his next trip at the end of December.

He and his family left the comfort of Canada 21 years ago to serve in missions in Guatemala and now leaves behind his beloved wife and four wonderful children.

Joe and his wife felt the Call of God to come to Guatemala and they have faithfully volunteered to provide much-needed support throughout the medical missions community.

Joe freely shared about his faith through his actions, conversations and music. At last count, he had done so in about eight countries.

Many times he shared that he heard the voice of the Holy Spirit guiding him in all sorts of ways and circumstances.

To say that Joe will be missed is a severe understatement, and he will be missed by hundreds who he has helped in the international medical community.

As a close family friend, I have their permission to post this GoFundMe to cover the many hospital and medical and funeral expenses. With your generosity, I personally hope to exceed this goal.

For USA donors, tax-deductible receipts will be issued by Hands of Hope Ministry, Inc., Florida - a registered 501c3 charity.