Obituaries

Survived by 4 brothers and 2 sisters, lifelong friend Heather, 4 children; Theresa, Joe Jr., Stacey and Andrew and 6 grandchildren.

Joe is remembered for his contributions as a Tsartlip Community Leader and being a strong advocate. Special mention for being honored with a certification for being a professor representing Tsartlip on the National Indian Chiefs board and assisting with the development and building of the Wsanec School Board and Lau Welnew Tribal School. Joe is also remembered for his many talents and was the Jack of all trades,

Family would like to send special thanks to the staff at Victoria General Hospital and all of the family and friends especially our cousins for all their support and assistance.

Both the prayer service at 7pm on Nov. 24 and the funeral service 9am on Nov.25 will be held at Pauquachin Hall.

Over the years, the  years Joe was a dedicated Councillor  of Tsartlip First Nation and  served on many other boards.  He also served as the Chairman of the Saanich Indian School Board.  One of his memorable moments was the standing ovation he received when he walked into a meeting in Ottawa, after the victory in court for Hunting court case.  He helped all first nations in Canada win /acknowledge their rights by assisting in this win.  His close political friends knew him as a fighter, and he would be in until the end. His passion was the children were first, when making decisions about education.  He loved Soccer and mentioned that he was just as good or better than the best of them(smiling as he said those words)  He shared that he loved to watch the sport and figured he was one the most dedicated fans of the Tsartlip Park field.  His friend spoke of how inspirational he was when sharing his knowledge and freely shared all that he could, saying I need to share, I can’t take this all with me. During the last few yesars Joe mentioned how he loved to see the culture still going strong in our communites along with the canoe paddling.  It warmed his heart to see  the young and old still paddling,  he could see this happening from his home.  He mentioned generation after generation just in that one family, made his proud to see that still happening.   Joe will be missed by all and leaves his legacy of dedication to what he knew of Douglas Treaty and the his dedication to the preservation of Rights of all First Nations people..  Until we meet again, may you rest in peace.