November 11, 1947 - October 25, 2022
In loving memory ~
It is with heavy hearts the family of William Woodland Joe announce his passing on October 25, 2022 at the Cranbrook Regional Hospital with loving family by his side.
Willie, Dad or Pappa as he was known to us all woke each day with energy and relentless enthusiasm for life. He was uplifting, kind, and welcoming to every soul he encountered. He touched the lives of those who knew him for years or even a brief moment. He was through and through a John Deere man, dedicating over 40 years of service to the company and creating lasting community relationships with every one of his customers.
Born in Cranbrook on November 11th, 1947, Willie was one of eight children, to Eeng and Sun Joe. He was raised on the family farm outside of Kimberley. After graduation he studied Heavy Duty Mechanics in Nelson. He then worked for International Harvester in Vancouver and that was where he was to meet the love of his life, Terri. They then moved to Cranbrook, where they began their lives together.
He loved working and puttin' around on his home (that he built with his own two hands), his garden and his annual Christmas light display was the enjoyment of the neighbourhood. He had won the BC Hydro Nights Alive award for it. Willie enjoyed puzzles and trying hard to beat the girls in weekly canasta card games alongside Lorne and Louise, his family and sometimes special guests and visiting friends. If you came to visit him he always sent you home with a care package for the trip.
He will forever hold a place in the hearts of his wife of 51 years, Terri; children Christie (Jason) and Kyle; grandchildren Carter, Cole and Sophie; brother Welland (Karen), sister May (Nigel), sister Bea in addition to the countless friends and family that were so lucky to have met him, and experience his world-famous bowls of popcorn.
Our family wish to extend a deep appreciation to the caring staff at both Kelowna General Hospital and the Cranbrook Regional Hospital for the kindness, compassion and support we all felt.
He will be forever missed.
A celebration of life will be held in the Spring of 2023.
Memorial Donations may be made in Willie's name to JoeAnna's House, Kelowna, BC.