Favorite child of a man who fired a son whose only transgression was developing multiple sclerosis.

Article from the Wall Street Journal in April 24, 1997.

Wall Street Journal

For years, the heir apparent was Joe Jr. He joined the company straight out of college in 1967 and worked his way up to chief operating officer. But because of his advancing multiple sclerosis, first diagnosed in 1983, he tired easily. He arrived at work late and left early. His father wasn't pleased; he wanted a strong successor. "He just came in my office one day and said it was time to go," says the son, who was out that same afternoon, in 1988.