Joe entered eternal life on Thursday, January 16, 2025, following a brief illness. He was 88 years old. He is lovingly remembered by his sons, Joseph (Jen) and Fr. Michael, S.J., and his cherished grandchildren, Adonis and Athena. Joe was predeceased by his beloved wife, Margaret (née Cassidy), and dear friend, Joyce Yari.
Joe is also survived by his sister, Tilley Cote (+Ray), sister-in-law, Olga Rosinski, and brother-in-law, Emil Butz. He also leaves behind countless nieces and nephews. Joe was predeceased by his parents, David and Helena, and his siblings, Steve (Jennie), Stan (Mary), Jack (Anne), Albert (Fran), Paul, Mary Schneider (Art), Kay Butz and Elizabeth Young (Al).
Joe was born on the family farm outside Whitkow, Saskatchewan, and moved to Niagara with his family as a small boy. He attended Pelham High School and later pursued studies at Brock University and Niagara University. Joe served as a dedicated teacher and principal with the Niagara Catholic District School Board (Welland County Separate) from 1958 to 1993.
Joe was a man of deep but quiet faith. He loved to laugh and celebrate life with his large circle of family and friends.
The family will receive condolences on Thursday, January 30, at Glen Oaks Funeral Home (3164 Ninth Line, Oakville) from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. and on Friday, January 31, at Lampman Funeral Home (724 Canboro Road, Fenwick) from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Vigil Prayers will be recited at 3:00 p.m. on January 31st. Joe’s Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, February 1 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Ann Church in Fenwick (834 Canboro Rd.), with interment to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery in Welland.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Parkinson Canada (www.parkinson.ca) or Canadian Jesuits International (www.canadianjesuitsinternational.ca).