Joseph was born in Winnipeg and raised in Tyndal, Manitoba. He spent his childhood on the farm, where he no doubt learned all of his valuable skills he shared with many.
Joseph was clearly skilled in gardening, one of his greatest interests. The bounty from his vegetable gardens kept wife Sally and his daughters busy throughout the fall. He loved to play bingo and cards, always having a deck in his lunchbox. He loved taking long walks which eventually became long walks on the golf green later in life. He even commented after buying an apartment condo, why should I cut grass when I could be golfing? One achievement that gave him great pride was the hole-in-one that he scored at Shooters Golf Course.
He always kept busy, helping out wherever he could and giving his time generously. He volunteered as an usher at his church, The Pan Am Games and for many years at St. Joseph’s Residence. Joseph gave his time to the residents, helping them with meals, barbequing for them, and helping to get them to their activities. Joseph was also a member of the St. Emile Council of the Knights of Columbus, 3rd Degree.
Joseph was employed with the Canadian National Railway for 29 years.
Joseph and Sally travelled across Canada visiting both coasts and many places in-between. Their cruise to Alaska was a highlight for both of them.
Joseph spent the last 5 years of his life under the incredible, loving care of the staff at Holy Family Nursing Home. The compassion the staff bestowed on Joseph certainly gave him the strength he showed in his battle with dementia. Our heartfelt thanks to all at Holy Family who touched Joseph’s life, we are forever grateful.
Joseph was predeceased by his mother Mary, father Michael, brother Paul, sister-in-law Elsie, and granddaughter Jasmine.
He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Sally, daughters Valerie (Neil), Carol (Arthur), Debby, grandchildren Ryan (Alana), Jason (Ashley), Zachary, Isaac, Quinlan, Julian, and great-grandchildren Scarlett, Marek, Juliet, Nolan, and Luke. He is also survived by brother Walter (Irene), sister Adeline (Don) and many nieces and nephews.
The pallbearers will be his six grandchildren Ryan Shaw, Jason Shaw, Zachary Meyers, Isaac Friesen, Quinlan Friesen and Julian Bailey.
If people wish donations can be made in Joseph’s name to Holy Family Nursing Home or to the Alzheimer’s Society.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 10, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. at Green Acres Funeral Home, Highway 1 East at Navin Road, Winnipeg, with viewing 30 minutes before the service.
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