If you do have 'stubborn determination to make things work out', get your skinny butt out to your shop and try a few things. THEN come back, put up some pictures of your efforts and ask a question.
Then repeat the process.
That's determination.
Judging by Joe's website...... http://www.arizonacustomknives.com/product-category.aspx
he was doing pretty good. He sure made some good looking knives.
Sorry to hear about his death.