Wednesday, July 31, 2024
I am writing to express my sincere condolences to Pat and all of Joe's family and friends.
I first met Joe when he taught grade 6 at Queenston Elementary School and I taught grade 6 at Riverview School, both in the southern portion of the Winnipeg School Division. Joe and I shared not only a love of teaching, but a love of coaching our respective students in soccer, softball, speedskating and a other sports. Over what seemed like a lot of seasons, our school teams inevitably faced each other in playoffs, and Joe and I developed a mutual respect and actually enjoyed the yearly competitions!
Soon we became friends as well as opponents, and served on committees of mutual interest and began a new and always fun competitive challenge for both of us on various municipal golf courses. As time passed, we both became Principals, and Joe even had my youngest daughter as one of his appreciative students!
While we did not have as regular contact as I would have liked after our retirements, Joe and I did find some time to enjoy some golf games and a lot of laughs together. Recently I had been trying unsuccessfully to get in touch again for that very purpose and was so distressed when hearing of his passing! I treasure the memories of the good times! Joe was a great guy!!
