Andrew Joseph Dennis Green

June 18, 1938 - June 14, 2023

Andrew Joseph Dennis Green, known to many as Mean Joe Green, bid farewell to us on June 14, 2023, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories. Joe was a lifelong resident of The Beach in Toronto, where he made an indelible impact on the Beach community.

Joe's passion for sports was a defining aspect of his life. From a young age, he excelled in various disciplines, including canoe-kayak, lawn bowling, squash, hockey, and basketball. Between 1953 and 1961, Joe's remarkable talent in canoe-kayak led him to seven Canadian championships, earning seven gold and two silver medals. His dedication and skill were remarkable, making him a true champion in the sport.

In 1984, Joe discovered his love for lawn bowling, and he quickly became a force to be reckoned with. Throughout the 1990s, he dominated provincial bowling, winning numerous district events. In the years that followed, Joe continued to impress, securing district gold or silver medals in various events from 1991 to 2008. His achievements reached new heights in 2000 when he proudly claimed the silver medal at the Canadian championships. In 2007, Joe stood atop the podium once again, winning the gold medal at the Canadian senior’s competition. He represented his country proudly on the world stage, earning gold medals in the World Open held in Las Vegas, USA, in both 1991 and 1993.

Joe's accomplishments were not limited to a single sport. He became the first member of the Balmy Beach Club to achieve Canadian championships in two different sports: canoe-kayak and lawn bowling. His versatility and skill showcased his athletic prowess and made him an inspiration to fellow sports enthusiasts.

Beyond his sporting achievements, Joe selflessly served on the Lawn Bowling board for several years. His dedication and commitment to the sport extended far beyond his personal success, as he actively contributed to the growth and development of the lawn bowling community.

Joe's vibrant spirit and unwavering dedication will be deeply missed. He leaves behind his loving daughters, Heather Naro and Catherine Murray, along with their supportive husbands, Mitch Naro and Stephen Murray. Joe’s grandchildren, Justin Naro, Sydney Naro, and Nathan Murray will forever cherish the memories they created with their grandfather.

Most recently, he enjoyed having coffee with his Beach friends, Bob Dye and Gerrard Grace,where they could catch up on each other lives, he was a people person who loved being surrounded by others. Joe Boyd, a retired fire captain, was also a good friend and neighbour of Joe’s for 34 years.

As we bid farewell to Mean Joe, we remember him as a remarkable athlete, a father and grandfather, and a cherished member of the Beach community. His legacy will forever inspire us to pursue our passions and embrace the joy of sportsmanship. May his adventurous spirit continue to live on in our hearts and minds.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.giffenmackdanforth.com for the Green family.