Updated: Veteran journalist dies

C. Farrugia

Sep 2nd 2008, 10:28

I did not personally know Mr Mercieca but he was one of my Communications lecturers at University. Sadly I could not finish my course, but I remember something which he had said during one of his lectures. It was something that has stuck to my mind and which I value and use every single day when evaluating any kind of information, whether in the news, any type of information, or personal life. There is nothing more worthwhile in life than getting closest to the REAL TRUTH!

He had said: **The six most important words in the English Language are those that start with five w's and one h: Who, What, When, Where, Why....and How.**

Condolences to his loved ones.

Conrad Mifsud

Aug 17th 2008, 23:59

A true man. A true friend. A true lecturer. Some people teach you the world only to realise you did not store anything they told you. Others teach few things which stick in you brain forever. You were one of those! You taught me a lot both academically as well as a person. I shall miss you. Conrad

Joanna Spiteri

Aug 16th 2008, 22:42

Joe, you were a great lecturer and you were an example for the academic staff at CCT. You were always ready to help the students and ex students and went out of your way to assist them. Thank you Joe for making my life at University a little bit easier due to your help. You did not look at the students from a personal point of view but your aim was one - assist them to be good, true, factual and fair journalists.

Rest in peace Joe. You will surely be missed in Maltese journalism.

Charlene Grima

Aug 16th 2008, 11:20

Deeply sad and shocked that Joe passed!! This photo brought back lots of your lecture memories. That smile, that honesty you transmitted! You were a dedicated person always there to help us out and encouraging us. I'll treasure everything you thought me throughout your credits. You'll be forever in our hearts and prayers. We lost true gentlemen! Deepest condolances to your family, friends and collegues.

Thanks Joe for everything and may your blessed soul rest in peace.
Pray for us
Charlene

Helena Fountain

Aug 16th 2008, 10:48

My condolences to his family.

What a great loss for all of us! I will always remember how this great journalist and wonderful, kind and patient man went out of his way to help us students. He always had time for us in his room at CCT. We are so fortunate to have had him as a lecturer and mentor.

Aleksandar Dimitrijevic

Aug 16th 2008, 09:09

Condolences to the family from Joe's former student.

Rest in peace

Stephen Gauci

Aug 16th 2008, 03:21

Dear Joe, you used to teach us that A Picture Is Worth A Thousand Words. Indeed.

Your picture in the Times today brought back the fond memories of our University life, of the true gentleman that you were, of the patience you had thoroughly correcting (not just marking) our assignments, of the simple yet thought provoking lectures, of your effective style of reporting which influenced so many of us...

Thanks and good bye my friend. You'll be greatly missed.

Coryse Borg

Aug 16th 2008, 00:45

Still in shock at the sad news. Joe's lectures were an absolute joy to attend and he will be sorely missed. The CCT will not be the same without him.

Mark Grima

Aug 15th 2008, 23:29

Will never forget your excellent lectures and advice. You will always be remembered.
Thanks and rest in peace Joe.

Alexia Stafrace

Aug 15th 2008, 21:22

Respected by many especially by his students, not only because he was ethical in his ways but in my opinion because he was one of the very few lecturers who went out of his way to be of great help in enhancing our own personal success. May his memory be long-lived because he deserves nothing less in passing.

Mario Zammit

Aug 15th 2008, 19:03

Surely one of the great lecturers at the CCT at the University of Malta, Joe has inspired us all to deliver the truth through journalism ... a true gentleman and a great friend!

.... remembering him right now on his desk, with his cup of coffee beside him and some piles of paper to correct ... a packet of cigarettes and the usual match box on top of the packet ... lighting a cigarette with a match from time to time!! He was always ready to help us with a smile, using a lot of his time for all his students! Thanks Joe!

Rest in peace my friend!
... and pray for us from up there!

Sincerest Condolences, Karl, Katia and Therese.

Kurt Bugeja Coster

Aug 15th 2008, 18:57

An inspiration to all prospective journalists !!

Heartfelt condolences to the sweetest of colleagues, Therese and their two children, Katia and Karl.

George Cini

Aug 15th 2008, 17:57

Joe was the epitome of correctness. At the moment, words which he worked so hard with students, myself included, to make us understand how to carve out a hard news story, elude me at this time of grief. I share the pain of this sad moment with his wife Therese and his children Karl and Katia. Farewell Joe.

David Carabott

Aug 15th 2008, 17:26

I loved this great man...
lately he looked tired in class, but i never imagined he would pass
away so quickly..he still had to give us a lot...
Will Miss You Dear Joe...
yours David

Sandro Micallef

Aug 15th 2008, 17:04

Great gentlemen. I loved his lectures at University. One of the most down to earth lecturers in Communications. Mr. Mercieca will be always remebered for his well prepared and interesting lecture sessions. May you rest in piece and thanks for all your help during my studies.

Sandro Micallef
Melita Sports

katie micallef

Aug 15th 2008, 16:20

He always gave a lot to his students, and I was really sad to hear this news. My condolences to his family.

Julianne Marie Gatt

Aug 15th 2008, 15:27

Im so sorry for the loss of a such an honest and great lecturer.
He gathered us after his lectures explaining certain points, whilst smiling cheerfully and saying a little joke here and there, whilst grabbing on to his cup of coffee which he carried. I won't forget him!

To Joe.

A cheering smile,
A touch of Sincerity
The respectful Patience,

The Truth,
The Peace,
A glimpse of your humble character,
Remains,
Lives forever.
That’s Joe!

Rosemarie Dorekens

Aug 15th 2008, 14:59

I's sad knowing that next year Joe will not lecture us. I will definately keep his 'writing advices' in mind and never use "very interesting".
Rest in peace Joe Mercieca.

Joseph Caruana

Aug 15th 2008, 13:47

I have known Joe for the past 9 years since the beginning of my university studies. His down-to-earth approach and professionalism, mingled with a goldmine of expertise, were an inspiration to us students. His room was a haven for all who sought his guidance and advice. He will be deeply missed by students, colleagues and friends.
A true gentleman for all seasons.
Thanks and God bless you, Joe!
My heartfelt sympathies to your family

Cher Tonna

Aug 15th 2008, 13:33

Joe was one of the best lecturers at the University, always there to greet us students with a gentle smile and positive attitude whenever we sought his help. He instilled in me a love for journalism which was only possible through his encouragement and support. A true gentleman who will be greatly missed.

Mary Baldacchino

Aug 15th 2008, 11:27

Sry to hear such a loss. Surely Jesus is compensating him well for all the good he has done on this earth.

May God and The Holy Mary be with his family during this moment of deep loss

Simon Abela

Aug 15th 2008, 11:01

In these moments...
Beyond thoughts and opinions
Beyond words and silence
Beyond today and tomorrow
Beyond life..
only Memories Remain...

Rest in Peace Joe

Kristian Zarb Adami

Aug 15th 2008, 10:07

Sincerest Condolences, Karl, Katia and Therese.

Emma Pullicino

Aug 15th 2008, 00:25

Joe Mercieca will be missed and lovingly remembered by all of us. He was a wonderful lecturer. A most generous and patient person, coupled with a gentle smile. My deepest condolences go out to his family, friends and close colleagues.

Stephen Hardisty

Aug 14th 2008, 23:29

I would like to add to my brother's comments and say that my uncle is the most remarkable person I have ever known. In this time of sorrow I am comforted by the memory of my uncle's generosity, humanity and affection showed to his sister-in-law, nephews and niece. For me he is a role model and I can find no better words than those of Pliny the Younger to describe how I feel about my uncle's death: 'he lives and will live forever, and in a wider sense in our memories and on our lips, now that he has left our sight.'

Charlene Catania

Aug 14th 2008, 21:31

Joe(that's what you wanted us to call you although you were our lecturer), You were one of my best lecturers at University. Amazing lecturer, honest, always there to help us students, He really showed dedication in what he did and that made me fall in love with journalism. I cannot but feel grief and pain for this sudden loss. My condolences to his family. God Bless his soul. Thank you for everything Joe! I'll cherish everything you thought me throughout my Comms course. You'll be forever in our hearts and prayer.

david grech

Aug 14th 2008, 20:41

Joe Mercieca was a fantastic lecturer and more importantly a loving and generous person. He shared his passion with us students throughout the years and will always be remembered fondly. My sincere condolences to his family and friends. He has moved on to cover a far greater story which has never been told...

Simon Galea

Aug 14th 2008, 20:15

Joe was my uncle, we're all very sad in England to be told the news. Uncle Joe was an amazing man and was obivously well loved by you guys in Malta judging from the messages being left ,and I thank you for that. Dearest Auntie Therese, my cousins Karl and Katia, we are all thinking of you at this moment of deepest sorrow.

My mother is very upset, being Therese's sister and the rest family in Malta are very saddened by the news of Uncle Joe's death.

He was a great man and a lovely uncle to have. If I could have choosen another dad it would have been him. Such a wonderful man, brilliant mind, such a funny fellow, I will miss him greatly.

Malta has lost someone very special ,and we have lost someone very dear.

God Bless you Uncle Joe

Love to all in Malta

Simon Galea

Chris Cini

Aug 14th 2008, 19:40

A sad loss indeed!!! I last saw Joe in 2000 and he is still one of the lecturers whom I still think fondly of from my University days. Joe was always admirable ... his professionalism yet without any fanfare ... he used to go down to all levels to ensure that everybody is on board. A true gentleman indeed.

Mario Vassallo

Aug 14th 2008, 19:23

What a shock to hear that you left us so suddenly, Joe! It is impossible to forget the smile with which you immersed yourself completely in your work, and your readiness to be helpful to students and to us, your colleagues at Tal-Qroqq.

May God allow the serenity you transmitted to us when you were in our midst to continue to inspire us.

Kurt Sansone

Aug 14th 2008, 18:41

Ask Who, Where, Why, When... and then so What?
Those were the famous words you uttered in each and every first lecture.
But all this doesn't matter now Joe... you are somewhere we can only dream of, you're with someone we don't know, we can never know why and... so what?
It may not matter to you dear friend but it does to us.
Your words are gone but your inspiration lives on.
My heartfelt sympathies to your beloved ones.

Kurt Sansone
Editor ILLUM

Richard Bezzina

Aug 14th 2008, 17:34

A sad and shocking news indeed that arrived too early for a man who inspired so many and could have continued to contribute for much more time. As one of his past students I remember he was loved and respected by all. His lectures were expected as they were always different from the rest, he was unpredictable and students waited to see what he had prepared. He was also one of the most available lecturers for students I ever had and I learnt a lot from him. I consider myself lucky to have been lectured by him and it is a pity future students will not be able to get his teachings. This is a sad day for Maltese journalism, the University of Malta and the Centre for Communication Technology.
Farewell and thanks Joe.

Karl Stagno-Navarra

Aug 14th 2008, 17:27

words may be trivial and difficult to console, but your stature in journalism merits all the tributes, for you were a man of professional integrity and dedication to the people's right to be informed. Joe your passing away has saddened us all, but all you have achieved and passed on to others throughout your long career, also serves as a beacon to all of us in journalism, that information has no boundaries. You fought for all that you believed in, and mae all those who worked or collaborated with you, absorb this great passion of yours, that to feel free and believe in what it takes to be free! God bless you Joe, may you rest in peace.

Karl Stagno-Navarra
Al Jazeera English
London

Karl Wright

Aug 14th 2008, 17:22

I admit I am shocked. It is definitely a great loss, especially for journalism in Malta. He was a professional. Taught everyone out of his true love to journalism.

I remember well the emphasis on distinguishing news from personal opinions and also the avoidance of sensationalism. I remember very well his constructive criticism and his provocative thinking, which he always shared with us, journalists. I cannot put aside his advices during a short period of time at Radio RTK's Newsroom. Besides all this, he surely was a gentleman.

I convey my condolences to his family.

Joe, may your ideas keep on insipiring us! R.I.P.

M.Bisazza

Aug 14th 2008, 17:05

Sad news indeed.

Although I came to know Joe only about 10 years ago, and did not know him as long as many people writing here, I used to enjoy a quick chat with him whenever I went to University. We became true friends, and he really had a different way to look at life. May God give him what he has always try to find here on earth. Goodbye Joe.

Ruben Overend

Aug 14th 2008, 16:43

Joe - A great lecturer, colleague and friend!
A humble person and a great gentleman. Thanks for being always there to help students and ex-students - Every hour was student's hour at Joe's office. Thanks for being an inspiration in my life. You will never be forgotten. Will miss you Joe! May you rest in peace.
My sincere condolences to Joe's family.

Ruth Amaira

Aug 14th 2008, 16:36

Joe, thank you for inspiring in us the sense of duty to report simply, without inventions, without omissions, everything that is true. You dreamt your dreams and lived them with passion and intelligent committment. May what you taught us remain alive forever.

Keith Demicoli

Aug 14th 2008, 16:29

He was a one-off, and we'll miss him terribly.
Huge loss for Maltese journalism.
Besides being an intellectual, Joe was a humble gentleman and great inspiration. He influenced my thinking and views.
It was a privilege meeting him a couple of times in the last few months.
At a time when we need such people, he will be sorely missed.

Therese, Karl and Katia, you have my deepest heart-felt sympathy for the loss of Joe.

Roberto Galea

Aug 14th 2008, 16:26

Joe Mercieca - a teacher, friend, and mentor. A man who taught beyond the confines of University, and who was not afraid to take a stand for what he believed in.
Thanks to him there are many fine Maltese journalists, working in Malta and abroad.
May he rest in peace

Gerald Fenech

Aug 14th 2008, 16:18

Goodbye Joe, you will be sorely missed by all who were in contact with you over the years. The comments already posted by so many friends and acquaintances is a testimony to your deep impact on all. RIP.
"This is not the end but the beginning"

Ruth Agius

Aug 14th 2008, 16:08

How can anyone forget a lecturer like Joe Mercieca. He was always there for his students and always knew the right thing to say. THANK YOU. You will always be in my thoughts and be greatly missed.

Tonio Borg

Aug 14th 2008, 16:08

I knew Joe for the past twenty years; a professional journalist who suffered for his ideals, a true gentleman, and a trustworthy friend. Condolences to Therese , Katia and Karl

Victoria Galea

Aug 14th 2008, 16:07

What an upsetting shock.
A real gentleman and always an inspiration.
He was always so ready to guide and advise.
Maybe not appreciated enough.
A true loss.

Stefan Grech

Aug 14th 2008, 16:04

My condolences to you and your family dear Katia on learning about your dad's passing away.

Although we've somewhat lost contact since our university days, my thoughts and prayers are with you at this moment.

Stefan Grech

Brussels

Jes Saliba

Aug 14th 2008, 15:51

Heartfelt condolences to the family of one of my teachers, who through his teaching and his life has always transmitted the virtues of loyalty and professionalism.

Arrivederci Joe

Richard Stagno Navarra

Aug 14th 2008, 15:40

Joe and I were at school together - old Aloysian stock. Joe was always a good friend and a gentleman of the old school. A dedicated journalist there were times when he suffered for his ideals.

Antonia Micallef

Aug 14th 2008, 15:26

This news was shocking to all those who knew Joe. He was not only a great lecturer but also a wonderful mentor, real gentlemen and true friend. A great loss to journalism in Malta and I must say to future journalism students.

Thank you Joe for all your help, guidance and inspiration; I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for you. You will be missed. My sincerest condolences to your wife and children.

Joyce Dixon

Aug 14th 2008, 15:07

A great loss to everyone who knew him - a remarkable man. Joe was a GENTLEMAN that will never be forgotten. Your former colleagues at the U.S. Embassy will never forget you.
May you rest in peace dear Joe.
My sincere condolences to his family

Yong Wang

Aug 14th 2008, 14:58

One of The best teacher from CCT, a great teacher and a real man. for three year i had been with him. Thanks for everything he had taught me. and God bless him. As a forgien student, i will never forget the things he taught me. thank you Joe

mario cassar

Aug 14th 2008, 14:45

This is a shock to all of us at CCT. I have known Joe both as my lecturer and in the last 9 years as a collegue. Joe was a real gentleman and his kindness excelled among other qualities he possesed. Joe had also a good sense of humor and we are going to miss him a lot. We will never forget you! RIP Joe. On behalf of the CCT administrative office I would like to thank you for the good moments we shared together..

Hubert Cini

Aug 14th 2008, 14:38

A great lecturer with a great heart, was always there to help.

Thanks Joe

Darrell Pace

Aug 14th 2008, 14:37

What sad news! I still can't believe it!

Rest in peace my dear mentor and friend. My memory of you will be the one when we met merely two months ago and you sounded serene, happy and on the ball as always.

Kurt Farrugia

Aug 14th 2008, 14:35

Rest in peace dear Joe...

You gave us journalism students so much that words cannot express our full appreciation. You were not only a lecturer but a friend, gentleman who was always there for us in our moments of difficulties.

You will not be forgotten, because you left a mark in each and every one of us present, past and future journalists.

Maria Muscat

Aug 14th 2008, 14:28

Joe Mercieca. Thank you for being an inspiration in my life and in my career.
There were many times when my University days were difficult but thanks to you, I felt more at home. There were many times where you were the only one who understood the meaning of being humble, gentle and kind. You were such a great value in the Communications Course and you inspired and taught many journalists. Thank you Joe Mercieca for making a difference in so many lives. God bless your family and my condolences to your wife and children.

Charlot Zahra

Aug 14th 2008, 14:27

I think that Joe will be sorely missed as one of those people who stood up for you in those moments in life that really count....He was not just a lecturer, but a mentor and a friend for life for all those who were fortunate enough to study journalism under his "old school". Although he had more than his share of problems in life, his persistence was remarkable thoughout...May he rest in peace.

On behalf of the Council of the Institute of Maltese Journalists and its members , I woudl like to express our deepest condolences at Joe Mercieca's sudden loss....

Reuben Sciberras

Aug 14th 2008, 14:23

What a sad news. Last time I spoke to Joe was is December as he was part of the interviewing bord @PBS during the last recruitment for journalists.

Ivan Said

Aug 14th 2008, 14:22

A sad loss indeed. A great mentor and a friend I will never forget. My sincere condolences to his family.

Fiorella Pace

Aug 14th 2008, 14:20

Joe was a great gentleman, wonderful lecturer and exceptional journalist. From my experience as one of his past university students, I can surely say that all Communications students will miss his professionalism and generous character. His demise is a great loss for Malta's journalism field.

Rest in peace Joe.... Your ideas and lectures will always remain with us.

Dr. John Zammit

Aug 14th 2008, 14:18

Farewell Joe, and rest in peace, I remember you as one of my lecturers during the journalism/communications course at the university of Malta. Sincere condolences to his family.

I remember you well, especially when we used to meet during activities organised by the Malta Press Club. One day or another we all have to go!

veronica galea

Aug 14th 2008, 14:13

Joe took up the post of lecturer at the CCT just before I graduated in 1994. A special man, he always had time for his students. He showed us how to write well, and he encouraged us to do our best. Most of all, he was always ready with a kind word. I shan't forget him.

Karl Gambin

Aug 14th 2008, 13:52

He was definitely one of the best lecturers at University, always ready to help out his students ... guiding them with his unparalleled advice. Thank you for everything which you have taught us!

Joe Grima

Aug 14th 2008, 13:45

What a great loss to his family, his many friends and former students. I simply don't remember how long I have known Joe - may be fortyfive years or more. He was a gentleman's gentleman with a warm and friendly disposition that endeared him to one and all. Joe was a frequent invitee to my programmes on Net TV during the seven years that I produced and presented my TV debates on Net . His contributions were always to the point. Joe belonged to what we call " The Old School" in fact, "The Good School." For him, disagreement on air on an issue with someone in the progarmme meant a point to be debated without rancour or invective. I never heard one harsh word from Joe's lips even when the issues were quite controversial..

To his Family and friends; My sincerest condolences.

May you rest in the peace that you richly deserve Joe. We shall miss you.

clive bonnici

Aug 14th 2008, 13:42

Remarkable man, remarkable lecturer, an example for all of us.

Sarah Suda

Aug 14th 2008, 13:35

i just want to say thank you to Joe for his patience, advice and all that he taught us..
a real loss to all who knew him....

Anna Demanuele

Aug 14th 2008, 13:30

A true gentleman, professional, and diplomat. Joe led by example in values and compassion. Working with Joe was an experience in diplomacy and tact. It was a privilege and an honour to work with him. Joe will sorely missed by his former colleagues at the U.S. Embassy.
Our sincere condolences to Therese, Karl and Katia
Anna Demanuele

Sue Mercieca

Aug 14th 2008, 13:29

A seasoned journalist, an emphatic lecturer and employer. Joe was always there. Thanks for your expertise. May you rest in peace. Condolences to all the family.

Lillian Sciberras

Aug 14th 2008, 13:19

I had the privilege of frequently coming across Joe's smile and kindness while working in the same building at CCT on the university campus for 14 years. Humanity and integrity were his hallmarks. We shall all miss him on this earth but I have a feeling he is now home from where his benevolence can still shine on us. Thanks for having been there Joe, and may your beloved family find solace as they grieve.

Wendy Borg

Aug 14th 2008, 13:16

Rest in peace Joe...you will always be remembered... A great man with a great heart...an example to follow

Roderick Spiteri

Aug 14th 2008, 13:15

Having just graduated from university, my memories of Mr. Mercieca are still very fresh. This is indeed sad news. As others have said, he was a real gentlemen and always willing to offer his help and expertise. He would go out of his way and meet students in his office even outside of student hours. I will definitely remember Mr. Mercieca as one of the best, and probably the friendliest of lecturers.

My condolences go to his family.

Pio Dalli

Aug 14th 2008, 13:13

I was deeply shocked by the news. I have known Joe since the very early seventies, he working with the Times and I with Rediffusion. He was a real gentleman, always full of advice to his colleagues. I later met him during his brief spell at RTK and the last time we met was at the airport bidding our sons farewell.

The demise of Joe is a real loss to to his family, friends and journalism.

Condolences to his wife Therese and his children Katia and Karl.

May God give him eternal rest.

Reuben Sciberras

Aug 14th 2008, 13:07

put simply... a great loss for all those who met him in their lives.
condolences to his loved ones.

Charles Meilaq

Aug 14th 2008, 13:06

May experience working side by side with you as staff reporter in the newsroom of The times for 14 years is unforgettable. Still remember clearly taking me with you on assignments related to British Services, a subject you were very keen about. Joe, I owe you most of my basic Journalistic experience.

Longi giorni Therese

Daphne Cassar

Aug 14th 2008, 13:05

Joe always tried to bring out the best in his students. Armed with a smile; patience and wisdom, he was always ready to guide us and urged us to persist no matter how difficult or impossible the task seemed at the time. He was an invaluable point of reference for all of us and a true gentleman. Thanks Joe.

Julian Zarb

Aug 14th 2008, 13:04

I will always remember Joe, not just for his professionalism in disseminating and reporting news and journalistic articles but more as a strong friend of the family. I always think that the best way of remembering a person who has passed on to the after life and to eternal rest is by remembering those things we have learnt from them during their sojurn on this earth...and I believe that many should remember Joe for what he has taught us about working honestly and devoutly in their chosen career as well as their social and family life. Thank You Joe and my thoughts at the moment are with Therese, Katia and Karl..God Bless You

Claude Distefano

Aug 14th 2008, 13:03

What sad news, indeed. Joe was so dedicated, approachable and kind-hearted.

Mandy Calleja

Aug 14th 2008, 13:02

Am truly shocked and saddened at this news... Joe was an excellent mentor and I will forever be in his debt. Sincere condolences to his family.

Robert Paul Galea

Aug 14th 2008, 13:02

Condolences to Therese, Katia and Karl

Charles Grech

Aug 14th 2008, 13:01

A true gentleman has left us.
May you rest in peace.

Elaine Attard

Aug 14th 2008, 12:58

Joe Mercieca's patience and passion for journalism will remain in many of CCT's students. Thanks Joe for sharing your sterling journalism experience during reporting lectures. You will be missed, but remembered in each of your students! Condolences to the Mercieca family!

Anouschka Grech

Aug 14th 2008, 12:57

This has come as a shock to me. May you rest in peace Joe. Ill always remember you as the smiling, patient lecturer. Deepest condolences to all the family. :(

Joseph Bartolo

Aug 14th 2008, 12:56

Go in peace for you deserve it.

Though a journalist, who thought, spoke and wrote differently I salute you, your courage and kindness. You were there when I needed you most and that is the real sign of humanity. Your words and support gave me courage to go on when I felt I cound not and it really mattered to me then and still does.

I for sure will miss you, as will doubtless your family, students and friends.

Sloopy

Gordon Borg

Aug 14th 2008, 12:55

Joe Mercieca was really a dedicated lecturer that puts passion in his work. He was always available for us (ex) students and never gave up. He taught us to persist and work hard especialy in the journalistic field to get the story first. Joe had a charisma in approaching students and teach them.

Joe you will still remain a great man for me - for what you were and what you passed to me during my four years at University.

My condolences go to his family.

Ruben Cassar

Aug 14th 2008, 12:53

This is a very sad day and a terrible loss. Joe (as he always insisted that students call him) was one of the best lecturers at CCT. A true gentleman, he really liked to help the students and guide them, often going out of his way in the process. We will miss you Joe, rest in peace.

Cora Balzan

Aug 14th 2008, 12:52

This is such a sad loss. He will be sorely missed. My condolences to his family

Duncan Barry

Aug 14th 2008, 12:48

My deepest sympathies to the Mercieca family.

Marija-Helga Zammit

Aug 14th 2008, 12:47

May you rest in peace!!! A great loss!!! Still speechless!!! How sad!!!

Maj. Ivan M. Consiglio, AFM PRO

Aug 14th 2008, 12:47

A great mentor, and a mine of information and knowledge, always appreciated genuine efforts towards transparent public information. A true gentleman to the core, his valid instruction and guidance will be sorely missed by those in the media field and his students (past and recent present) on Campus at CCT.
Was always quick on the phone when stuck with some rare military detail, especially for his war-gaming table-top army.
Look over us Joe, we're still bound to err on this earth, maybe with a helpful nudge from you up there, we could avoid the flak on our work paths of information dissemination.

Charlo' Bonnici MP

Aug 14th 2008, 12:46

Joe Mercieca was a true gentleman, a very honest person and a competent lecturer and media/news analyst. My condolences to his family.

Anson D. Aquilina

Aug 14th 2008, 12:45

Joe was not just a true journalist but also a mentor to many of his students. Thank you Joe for your help and inspiration. You will be missed.

Gorg Mallia

Aug 14th 2008, 12:43

This is a massive shock. I have shared a room with Joe at University for over ten years, and he became a best friend and a mentor in the process. His loss is not just his family's (my heartfelt condolence, Therese, Karl and Katia), but also to journalism in Malta, to the University of Malta and its communications students to whom he selflessly gave hours every day, to all those who have studied under him ... and to his friends, whose hearts have been rent by this news. Rest well, dear friend. You, your words, your wonderful, helpful advice, and most definitely your smile, will never be forgotten. I will miss you!

Victor Cauchi

Aug 14th 2008, 12:39

I remember Joe at the newsroom way back during 1977 - 1981 where I attended in the afternoon to write out my law reports. He was a real gentleman, of great help to all and always in a pretty good mood whatever his assignment. I then recall his lifts to his hometown Balzan, later to become mine too, and our discussions on current foreign affairs or the chess game we would have just finished playing. His sense of calmness pervaded my life as did his Latin sayings, 'sic transit' being his favourite one.
My condolences to his family.

Victor Cauchi

Wayne Flask

Aug 14th 2008, 12:38

Sad news indeed. Rest in peace, sur Joe.

Kevin Caruana

Aug 14th 2008, 12:36

A genuine lecturer and a true gentleman with a heart of gold. Will always remember you with a smile. Joe, may you rest in peace.

Joe FOuntain

Aug 14th 2008, 12:30

As a former student of Mr. Mercieca's, my condolences go to his family.

Franco Aloisio

Aug 14th 2008, 12:29

I'm saddened to hear this news. Yes....news....that is what Joe used to stress on...."is this news or not"...."what's the story"? That is what Joe used to ask us, young journalists. I remember Joe M during my days at the Sunday Independent in the late 1990s. His advice was always forthcoming. A true gentlemen! We'll miss you

Sylvana DeBono

Aug 14th 2008, 12:24

This is sad news indeed. Also former head of PBS news, JOe Mercieca was a gentleman, a disappearing breed of journalists who value facts from interests and who distinguish opinionating from reportage. The maltese mediascape will be poorer for this loss.

Jennifer Mifsud, timesofmalta.com

Aug 14th 2008, 12:23

Joe, the news saddens me and my family. I remember the first day of lectures with you in Basic Reporting... your way of delivering the lectures couldn't be more weird :) and I say weird in a positive way... I remember you throwing ping pong balls at us to grab our attention... wearing different coloured socks and a number of watches... Insomma Joe, you were unique in your way of teaching. This news shocked the CCT class of 2004 for sure. Everyone was dumbstruck as I called them this morning. You weren't just a lecturer to us, but also a friend... - May you rest in peace in God's embrace.

Condolences to Therese, Katia and Karl