Fred JOSEPH

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Fred Joseph at the age of 91. Fred slipped away peacefully with his son, Brad, holding his hand on May 10th, 2020, following a long and valiant fight with numerous health issues.

Fred was born in Coleman, Alberta on March 5th, 1929; one of nine children to parents Joseph and Maria. 

Fred’s father passed away when he was 9 years old while his mother was pregnant with youngest brother, Joey. Fred stepped up to fill his father's absence as best he could, quitting school after grade 8 to help his mother and serve as a father-figure to brothers Donald, Gordon and Joey. They always viewed Fred not only as their brother, but also a friend, father and mentor.

Fred met a beauty in Natal, BC and was immediately won over by her grace and drive. On August 25, 1956, Fred married his life partner and best friend, Louise Cancian in Natal. Fred & Louise had their only son, Brad, in 1958.

Fred started work at a very early age, working at CPR, cutting mine props, shoveling and delivering coal, driving truck and operating equipment. He worked in the logging business for Revelstoke sawmills in the Pass doing everything from timber cruising, layout and woodlands manager. Fred started work at Crowsnest Industries as sawmill foreman in Natal and then serving as superintendent when the new sawmill was built in Elko. Fred relocated the family to Elko for a few years while they built their dream home on Dicken Road in Fernie. After retiring, he returned to work for a few years with Cowley Forest Products, helping with a new sawmill startup.

Fred and Louise’s house and yard were their pride and joy; you could feel the love and effort that they put into the lawn, gardens and rock work.

Family was most important for Fred. He cherished his time with all of them and was always providing advice, guidance and assistance. There wasn't anything that Fred would not do to protect, guide and support his wife, son & grandchildren whenever needed.

Fred was a true gentleman. Anyone who met him will remember his quick humour, infectious personality and friends will know his love of hamburgers and chips (fries).

Left to celebrate his life and mourn his passing are son Brad (Deb); grandchildren Shaun (Pam), Nicole (Jordan), Jordyn, step-grandson Curtis and daughter Addison; great grandchildren Amia, Brooklyn and Madison; brother Gordon (Pat) and sister-in-law Rae, as well as several nieces, nephews and many loyal friends.

Fred was predeceased by his wife Louise in 2009 and never went a day without saying how much he missed her. He was also predeceased by his father Joseph, mother Maria, sisters Margaret, Minnie, Elsie, Louise and brothers Laurie, Donald and Joey.

Fred’s family would like to thank the employees of Rocky Mountain Village for the care and compassion afforded to Fred during his time in their care. Dr. Soetaert, for the many years of medical care and a personal touch that meant so much. To close friends Vic Adachi, Lloyd Wilkinson and Gary Dixon, a man could never find better company than you and the family will remember your loyalty and friendship forever.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Fred JOSEPH, please visit our floral store.