Obituary of JOSEPH BOITSON

Joseph Boitson December 31, 1926 –February 12, 2012 Peacefully, on Sunday February 12, Joseph Boitson passed away at the age of 85. Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife Elizabeth of 54 wonderful years, his daughter Donna (Roger), grandchildren Warren and Melissa (Michael), son Don (Andrea) twin granddaughters Ashley and Meghan, and grandson Matthew, son Charles (Lyn) and granddaughter Carly. Joseph is also survived by his sisters, Nellie, Helen (Jack), Olga, and brother Orest (Anne) as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and lifelong friend Bill. Joseph was predeceased by his parents Nicholas and Michalina, as well as brothers, John, Steve, Bill, Mike, Frank and Jim, and sisters, Pauline and Anne. Joe was born in Komarno, MB, and started working in the construction industry at an early age, including 33 years with Nelson River Construction before retiring in 1991. It was early on in his working life that he met Elizabeth - they formed an inseparable bond enjoying all the pleasures of life together. Joe had many passions in life, family and music being the most important to him. He was extremely proud of his children and grandchildren, mentoring and nurturing them with great values and lifelong skills. Papa’s face would light up when he spoke of his grandchildren and their adventures and accomplishments. "Old Time Ukrainian Music" was big part of Joe’s life. He had incredible talent as a skilled tsymbaly (dulcimer) player and we can all remember the weddings, anniversaries and get-togethers when he brought out the tsymbaly and the guests started dancing. He enjoyed playing until all hours with his brothers Bill, Steve, Mike and Orest. Hrai, Joe, Hrai! Joe had a great knack for fixing and tinkering. He was able to repair anything from toasters to combines, engines and implements and loved to help build go-carts and trikes for all to enjoy. He truly was the "Joe" of-all-trades! Joe loved the outdoors – growing up as a child in the Interlake – he was either working hard on the family farm near Komarno or taking time to play baseball or hockey on the frozen pond. Berry and mushroom picking with family and friends were favorite summer pastimes. He enjoyed participating in sports and took up golf after retirement. Papa was proud to attend all sports, school concerts and graduations of his grandchildren. Many thanks to Dr. Panaskevich and the staff of Seven Oaks General Hospital for their care and kindness. Prayers will be held on Thursday, February 16 at 7:00 p.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main St. Funeral service will be held on Friday, February 17 at 10:00 a.m. at the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of St. Stephen, Pleasant Home. Interment will follow in St. Stephen Church Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Parkinson’s Society of Manitoba or a charity of your choice. We will forever remember you in our hearts. We love you! Vichnaya Pam’yat.