Captain Joseph Buonocore

August 29, 2006-

Captain Joseph Buonocore, captain of the M/V JAMES R. BARKER, passed away early Tuesday morning while at home on vacation. He was 48 years old.

Captain Joseph Paul Buonocore graduated from the State University of New York Maritime College-Fort Schuyler in 1979. Upon graduation, he was hired by Interlake Steamship Company as Third Mate. In the following 13 years, Captain Buonocore assumed various roles of increasing responsibility throughout Interlake's Fleet.

His first assignment as captain was in 1993 aboard the MV PAUL R. TREGURTHA, and he worked as a relief master on all of Interlake's boats.

Joe will never be replaced; having possessed a passion and pride for sailing and the Great Lakes like no other. He was a friend and advocate to countless men and women who have sailed with and for him. He will be sorely missed as a shipmate and friend to everyone at the Interlake Steamship Company.

Joe is survived by his wife Laura, parents, one sister and two nieces who reside in the Long Island, New York area.