Bruce Springsteen recently paid heartfelt homage to his friend Joe Depug, a former pitcher from New Jersey, following the news of Depug’s passing at the age of 75. Their friendship, which spanned decades, inspired Springsteen’s iconic song “Glory Days.”

A Fond Farewell

In an emotional Instagram post dated March 30, Springsteen reflected on their friendship, stating: “A little moment marking the passage of Freehold native and ball player Joe Depug. He was a good friend when I needed him.”

Memories from Their Youth

Springsteen and Depug grew up together in Freehold, New Jersey, where they played baseball in the same youth league. A chance reunion at a bar in 1973 rekindled their friendship and served as inspiration for “Glory Days,” a song celebrating nostalgia and reminiscence.

Recollections of Their Last Meeting

Depug reminisced about their reconnection outside the Neptune theater, where they spent hours catching up. “Whenever we’re together, it’s the same dynamic. I’m a star and he’s the guy at the end of the bench,” he shared in a 2011 interview with the Palm Beach Post.

The evening unfolded with a visit to a blues club, which extended into the early hours. “After seeing the Blues, we went back and closed the place,” Depug recalled.

“Glory Days” and Its Impact

“Glory Days,” which reached fifth place on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1985, held a special significance for Depug. When he first heard the song, he thought the lyrics spoke about their shared memories. “When I first heard the song, I thought it said, ‘And all we kept talking about is on Glory Day.’ A few years later, I finally saw the lyrics and realized the truth,” Depug recounted with a chuckle.

A Legacy of Friendship

Throughout their lives, Springsteen and Depug maintained their friendship, occasionally crossing paths in Palm Beach County, where Springsteen owned a home in Lake Worth. Despite the challenges that life presented, their bond remained strong.

Remembering Joe Depug

Joe Depug, a longtime educator in Freehold, is remembered fondly by his peers, including coach Rich Kane, who acknowledged his contributions and the warmth he brought to those around him. Depug’s battle with cancer ultimately led to his untimely passing.