We have no words in front of the messages of pride and gratitude received, that is, a whole life dedicated to the anti-fascist struggle and the memory of those who fought for a free Basque Country during the civil war.

My father, my grandfather and my great-grandfather was a man for the people and for the people. An unrestrained heart and force in the body of a wrestler and a worker; beating all the “wars” throughout his long life. A person of sound ethical values and representative in defence of democracy and of a whole generation that helped to improve it, and that today is putting democracy once again at risk.

In his last days he even said to the boredom that justice and reparation for the wounds that remain open were essential to advance as a society. It marked the destiny of our small people by keeping alive and remembering history; a small people made up of migrants, ideologically plural and seemingly serious but with open arms to the world.

Joseph had the opportunity to meet and enjoy different generations. In his view, over the years they have gone “forgetting and sleeping about the true meaning of fascism”. But his memory and, above all, his struggle will make one day, when he looks back, he is proud of our origin. Thus, avoiding a fascist future without freedom.

During his funeral, we saw people of all ideologies, ages, classes and origins lamenting his loss. As he said, his “family” was much more extensive; a “family” that has contributed to maintaining a long life until 100 years old.

On the part of the nearest family nuclei, we would like to thank in particular: The group of Elai-Alai dances, which for the last 30 years has been welcomed with such affection. Iban Gorriti (journalist of Mugalaria) and Fernando Pedro Pérez (author of his biographic book), for collecting, valuing and disseminating his memory. The political and trade union militants, who paid tribute to him to the last moment, shared their prowess with them. Santa Marina Hospital for Dignified Treatment at all times, especially to your nearest doctor, Iratxe González Morcillo. And all those who, without leaving anyone forgotten, had made her so joyous of life just by looking into her eyes.

Finally, we would like to say that the laws of historical memory are truly comprehensive and that we look forward to justice and reparation for the crimes committed by Franco and international fascism.

Thank you wholeheartedly.