Josef Kietaibl

February 27, 1946 - September 2, 2024

Josef Kietaibl passed away on September 2, 2024 at Peace Arch Hospital in White Rock, BC. A man known by all for his fierce determination, deep loyalty, and awe-inspiring intelligence, he was a force like no other. Born on his grandparents' farm in Lang, Austria, Josef came from humble beginnings. Amidst the challenges he faced, he found joy and love through friendships and family in his hometown of Gamlitz, Austria. He spoke fondly of his days as a youth leader with his church and the time spent with his Uncle Hansel on his farm.

At the age of 18, Josef left Austria to travel the world. He first lived in Switzerland, then travelled to Africa and Australia, and, finally Canada, where he spent the remainder of his life.

Josef's life accomplishments are nothing short of remarkable. A tool and dye maker by trade, he built a successful business from the ground up and retired in 1999 at the age of 53. He had countless hobbies and talents and excelled at them all. He loved flying ultralight airplanes, was an exceptional painter, learned to golf and play the accordion, and loved animals - who could forget his beloved goats and adoring cats.

In 2014, he suffered a brainstem stroke and wasn't expected to survive. Determined to live his life, he went from being in a locked in state, to being able to operate an electric wheelchair, enjoy food, have a conversation, and most importantly, meet all his beloved grandchildren.

Josef is predeceased by his mother, Anna, and brother, Herbert. He is survived by his wife, Patricia, children, Anton (Phi Dung), Angela (David), Naomi (James), and Nathan (Jennifer), grandchildren, Diego, Cecelia, Kaitlyn, Olivia, Emily, and Sophia, brother, Siegfried (Gerlinde), sister, Gertraud, many nieces, nephews, cousins, and of course, the many members of his loving in-laws, the Bonshor family, where he found belonging, friendship, and unconditional love.

Deeply missed and always loved, Josef's legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, October 2 at 1:00pm at Morgan Creek golf course, 3500 Morgan Creek Way, Surrey, BC.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully asks that donations be made to the BC Heart and Stroke Foundation.