Finding Purpose Through Event Planning: A Tribute to Joshua “Genuine Joy” Wolak

By Debbie Garcia, CMP, CEO of virsitour

This holiday season was unlike any other. It was emotional and reflective, marked by the news of a dear friend's passing that shook us to our core. Joshua “Genuine Joy” Wolak, a man whose life radiated love, joy, and music, left this world on New Year’s Day at the age of 40. Though his journey with glioblastoma had been long and challenging, his spirit remained unwavering until the end. His infectious smile, extraordinary musical talent, and unwavering friendship left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

As I sit with the grief of this loss, I also feel an immense sense of purpose. In the days following Josh’s passing, I was asked to do something that felt like a calling: to use my skills as an event planner to help create a memorial service that truly honors his remarkable life. This will not be just any event. It will be a celebration of everything Josh brought into the world—his music, his laughter, and the deep connections he shared with so many. People from across the globe are contributing their love, memories, and music to what promises to be an unforgettable gathering in Nashville.

Event Planning as a Superpower

Event planning is my superpower. It’s a skill set that allows me to bring people together, create experiences, and make moments meaningful. In my professional life as the CEO of virsitour, I’ve had the privilege of building a platform that revolutionizes the way planners and suppliers connect. But moments like this remind me that these skills transcend my job. They are tools for creating impact not only for clients but also for my family and friends.

When you find your purpose in life, it becomes clear that it isn’t limited to a title or a specific role. Purpose has the power to flow into every part of your life, shaping how you contribute to the world and the people around you. My purpose is to bring people together—to create spaces where connections, joy, and meaning can flourish. Whether it’s through virsitour or a deeply personal event like this memorial, the essence of what I do remains the same: using my skills to make life’s moments unforgettable.

A Purposeful Tribute

Planning Josh’s memorial service is one of the most meaningful projects I’ve ever undertaken. Alongside his friends and loved ones, we are creating a space to celebrate the incredible person he was. It’s not just about logistics or timelines; it’s about crafting an experience that honors his legacy. Music that brings joy. Words that heal and inspire. A gathering that reflects the essence of who Josh was and what he meant to all of us.

As an event planner, I’ve always believed that the work we do is about more than just executing events. It’s about connection and purpose. This experience has deepened that belief and reminded me why I’m so passionate about what I do.

Skills That Transcend

Life has a way of reminding us that our skills and talents aren’t confined to one area. They are tools we can use to make a difference wherever and whenever they are needed. The ability to bring people together, to organize and create meaningful moments, is something I’ve always cherished. But using those skills to honor a friend and provide comfort to those grieving is a reminder of how impactful our work can be, not just professionally but personally.

Josh’s passing has left a hole in our hearts, but it has also brought us together in a way that feels so profoundly human. I am grateful to play a role in creating this celebration of his life, and I hope that it brings joy and healing to everyone who attends.

A Final Reflection

To anyone reading this, I encourage you to reflect on your own purpose and the skills you bring to the world. They are more powerful than you may realize. Whether you’re an event planner, a musician, a teacher, or anything else, the things you do every day have the potential to make an extraordinary impact—on clients, on colleagues, and on the people you love most.

Josh’s life and legacy remind us all to cherish the moments we have and to share our gifts freely. I am honored to be a part of this celebration, and I hope that through it, we can all be reminded of the joy and love that Josh brought into the world.

Rest in peace, Joshua “Genuine Joy” Wolak. Your music and spirit will live on in all of us.