March 21, 1943 - February 5, 2020
It's with sadness that we mourn the passing of ....A Good Man. Joe leaves Ann Marie his wife and best friend of 52 years, his beloved daughters Stasia [Bob Stewart] , Jenni [ Jeff Frumento] and his exceptional grandchildren Madison & Fraser Stewart and Joe & Raci Frumento.
Also Mary, Roberta and Boris Rozich of Hamilton, Ont. his extended and loving Family.
Joe was "made" in Croatia and born in Kirkland Lake, Ont. to Joseph and Kristina. He instilled in his family a love of their Croatian Heritage. Joe spoke 5 languages, loved history and knew the political Ideology of most countries. He was a "news junkie" with a lifelong thirst for knowledge.
Joe started his mining career in Kirkland Lake, Ont. He then moved on to INCO in Thompson, MB. and in 1976 his family came to Campbell River, BC and Western Mines. Always a classy, well-spoken guy Joe represented WM at The Children's Miracle Network Telethon, in Vancouver, for many years. Joe was also a Rotarian and a Member of the Legion.
Joe and AnnMarie met on a blind date in Thompson, MB. and they married 3 months later. They owned and operated Pizza Island, in Campbell River, for 14 years where he acquired his nickname 'Pizza-Joe' that many old friends still call him by today.
In 2008 Joe had a Kidney Transplant. He received the kidney from Ann Marie which only added to the bond they shared. Stasia & Jenni were right there with them at St. Paul's through it all.
His golfing friends always joked that he was now eligible to use "The Ladies and The Men's" at any Golf Course.
Joe's passions were his family first, loyalty, his dogs, golf, sunny winters in Yuma, travel and a 70 year commitment to the Montreal Canadians.
As a Family we have been Blessed with a loyal husband, father, grandfather, protector and friend. As demonstrated, during his 5 month illness, he was elevated by love and caring friends and family from all over the world. To the Doctors that visited him after hours, the incredible Hospice Team at Yucalta Lodge, Father Jon [St. Patrick's], Joe F. & Barry W. To Special friends Trish & Gordon who cared for our Rufus for all those months... we are forever grateful.
Joe has crossed The Rainbow Bridge and is now happily reunited with his beloved Sammie.
Tell people you Love them while you can...... and live with NO Regrets. A private Celebration of Joe's Life will be held this summer.