A Life to be Admired

By Judi Markowitz / Huntington Woods, Mich.

Josh Levinson enjoying the view in Algonac, Mich. of Lake St. Clair

York Road will never be the same without Josh Levinson. Josh was an integral part of the fabric that made our street so popular.

As our children were growing up in the 1980s and ‘90s, we had the block extraordinaire in Huntington Woods. Kids who lived in close proximity would find their way to our street — there was a gravitational pull. Sadly, on Friday evening, November 7th, we lost our esteemed citizen. Josh was 45.

Josh was an ambassador of joy. His friendly, good nature would draw you in and capture your heart. He had an endearing smile, and his laughter was infectious. Combined with his inquisitive nature, Josh was a force — kind and loving.

York Road was a hub of activity from morning until evening. Big wheels zooming down the street, children playing outside, and tree houses filled with curious kids. And Josh was an eager participant when he could manage a situation; otherwise, he was an eager observer.

As parents, we reveled in our children’s happiness as we watched them grow. We were a close-knit group and even had adult time together. Dinner parties were organized and babysitters employed. And when many of us found that more space in our homes was a necessity, we opted to renovate instead of moving away from our beloved York Road.

As an infant, Josh was diagnosed with Williams Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that affects one in 10,000 people. He battled numerous health issues, endured cardiovascular problems, and lived with developmental challenges. But a stroke at age 30 was the most difficult to navigate.

My daughter, Lindsay, was also born with a rare condition — Marshall-Smith Syndrome, which has affected her physically and cognitively. Lindsay has battled many health scares as well. There are approximately 50 people with this condition and Lindsay, at 46, is presumed to be the oldest living person worldwide with Marshall-Smith Syndrome.

Living across the street from the Levinsons, our families bonded due to our unique situations. York Road had a double dose of disability with Josh and Lindsay, and anyone who met them found themselves on a true journey.

Josh and Lindsay riding the school bus together for a Halloween party at six years old

Initially, Elise Levinson and I took Josh and Lindsay to an early intervention program —physical and occupational therapy were the focus. Then at the age of three, the duo was ready to ride the bus to Avery Elementary School, in Oak Park, Mich. They attended the POHI program (Physically and Otherwise Health Impaired). Josh and Lindsay graduated but went in separate directions to schools that could nourish their individual abilities. Josh continued with the Berkley School District and Lindsay went to satellite programs through Wing Lake Developmental Center, in Bloomfield Hills.

Josh graduated from Berkley High when he was 18 and was eager to walk across the stage at the Meadowbrook amphitheater, in Rochester Hills. And when the anticipated moment arrived, the crowd erupted, and Josh received a rousing standing ovation. There were over 2,000 people in attendance. It was a memorable evening.

Dedicated special education teachers and para-pros guided Josh and Lindsay through their years in the public school system. Thanks to the Michigan state law for special education students, Lindsay was able to remain in her program until she graduated at 26 years old. Josh continued his education while attending Jardon Vocational School in Ferndale, Mich.

Josh and his job coach making the rounds at Beaumont Hospital

A surprise 40th birthday billboard on Greenfield Road in Oak Park, Mich.

Josh’s job training led him to create his own micro-business — Josh’s Noshes at Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, Mich. His snack cart provided goodies for patients and staff alike. It was a defining situation for Josh, and he was beloved by thousands of people who were part of the vast hospital system, as well as visitors. For twelve years Josh enjoyed his work experience, until Covid shut it down.

Josh’s brothers Simon, Noah, and Gideon, along with our sons Todd, Chad and Eli, developed a natural bond with their special siblings. It wasn’t always easy. At times they had to endure the stares and rude comments made by others. Even though they occasionally felt like punching people, they never acted on those impulses. Educating people through their actions was key.

(from the left) Todd, Lindsay and Josh on a special outing in the dugout at Detroit's Tiger Stadium (1988)

All six brothers were accidental teachers, even though they were unaware of this role until they were much older. Nurturing acceptance of Josh and Lindsay defined their roles in the neighborhood and beyond. The brothers embodied compassion, empathy, patience, and love — their friends and anyone they met were soon their avid students..

Behind the scenes, parents of special needs children are constantly at work to improve the lives of their kids. They are advocates and work hard to guarantee that their children receive the services they need and are entitled to. Our families constantly pushed forward so that Josh and Lindsay didn’t miss a beat.

Josh in his glory at the annual Fourth of July parade, riding in a 1957 Chevy Bel Aiir

Josh was a passionate car enthusiast — he knew every make and model. The Woodward Avenue Dream Cruise was an especially important time for Josh. Every August, the intense rumble of engines and beautiful vintage cars can be seen from the corner of York Road and Woodward. Josh, accompanied by Marty and Elise, would have a front row seat. Living in close proximity to Woodward, it was a short walk for Josh, and he enjoyed the action.

And when it came to the brother’s weddings, Josh and Lindsay were active participants.

Josh was thrilled to finally have a sister when Simon married Katy. He was Simon’s best man. And in late August there was a repeat performance. Josh became his brother Gideon’s best man and Jacob, Gideon’s new husband, was added to the band of brothers.

Josh enjoying his brother Gideon's wedding last August

Josh proudly walking with his father Marty at the wedding

In our family, Lindsay’s world expanded when Todd married Chana Tova and again when her brother Eli married Alexandra — sisters enriched her life as well. Lindsay even walked down the aisle with Eli – of course, with his guidance.

For Josh and Lindsay, the true bonus came when nieces and nephews were added to the mix. The excitement and regular visits filled them with delight — except when the noise level could have ruptured an eardrum.

In October, Josh suddenly contracted Covid, and his rapid breathing became problematic. He was rushed to the hospital but expected to come home after IV infusion and oxygen. Like a yo-yo, Josh’s health issues went up and down.

Josh was hospitalized for nearly a month. He came through heart valve replacement surgery but then another blood infection set in. It was a downward spiral and Josh’s body couldn’t tolerate the continued onslaught. He passed away peacefully with his family by his side.

I will miss Josh’s quick wit and charming personality. I will also miss reading his father Marty’s emails highlighting Josh’s amusing comments of the day.

But most of all, I will truly miss seeing Josh wave at Lindsay and me as we drive past his house on York Road. Josh left his mark on the city of Huntington Woods and beyond, and now we are left with a huge void.

Our dear friend is gone, but his memory will last and be a blessing.

Good night, sweet prince.

The Levinson family having fun while vacationing in Cannon Beach, Ore. (2019)

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Judi Markowitz is a retired high school English teacher of 34 years. She primarily taught twelfth grade and had the pleasure of having her three sons grace her classes. In addition, she taught debate, forensics, and Detroit film. Judi has four adult children and nine wonderful and energetic grandchildren. She is married to Jeffrey Markowitz, whom she met in high school. They now spend much of their time running around with their grandkids. The View from Four Foot Two is Judi’s first book.