Members will be saddened to hear that Joe Woods passed away early on Friday morning following a short illness.
Joe first joined the club as a cadet in the 1960’s and went on to enjoy considerable success as a competitive racing sailor locally, nationally and internationally. His Team Red were formidable competitors in keelboat racing and Joe was proud to represent the Royal Torbay Yacht Club across the world.
Always keen to support and encourage young sailors, Joe gave many youngsters the opportunity to further their sailing careers with Team Red. He was, along with others instrumental in creating the Torbay Youth Sailing Trust and as a Director and Trustee was always on hand to offer guidance, advice and support.
Joe served as a member of the club’s management committee and as Rear Commodore House (2013 – 2014) during which time he made a significant contribution to the running of the club, his business experience and expertise was invaluable.
Joe was always willing to support the club and it’s activities. He was a generous benefactor over many years in so many ways. Joe loved the club, enjoyed the camaraderie and it was such an important part of his life.
He will be sorely missed by the many members who sailed with him and those who enjoyed his company.
Our thoughts at this time are with his wife Julie and his family.
Joe’s funeral will be on Wednesday 23rd September at 4.00 pm at Cockington Church, with drinks on Joe at the Royal Torbay Yacht Club afterwards.
In lieu of flowers, the family would like to invite donations to the CCU appeal at Torbay Hospital in recognition of the commitment and kindness of the doctors and nurses who cared for Joe and his family over the time he was in intensive care.
Bob Penfold
Commodore 21st September 2015