July 18, 1949 - May 12, 2020
Joe was born at the family farm near Swan Lake on July 18th, 1949 and his life ended suddenly on May 12th, 2020, in exactly the same place where it had begun 70 years before.
Joe grew up in Vernon and after graduation, moved to Vancouver Island to work in the mines as a blaster and truck driver. In 1996, Joe and his wife Kathy came back to Vernon to live out their remaining years on the farm, a place they deeply loved. He suffered a stroke in 2016 which affected his vision but it never kept him from wanting to live as full a life as he was able to.
Joe will be missed by his sister, Mary (Don) Kurbis; one nephew, Richard (Karen) Kurbis; one niece, Kim (Ross Johnson) Kurbis; and his great-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Kathy in 2015; and his brother, Thomas in 2011.
In respecting Joe's wishes, he was cremated and a small family gathering will be held at a later date on the family farm to celebrate his life. We, Joe's family want to take this opportunity to thank all of you who were so kind in giving Joe a lift down Pleasant Valley Road whenever you saw him out and about. Your kindness will never be forgotten.
Cremation arrangements were made with Bethel Funeral Chapel Ltd., 5605-27th Street, Vernon, B.C. V1T 8Z5. 250-542-1187