Joe was born January 18, 1942 in Rose Valley, Saskatchewan. He died suddenly at home at the age of 67.
He is survived by his wife, Carole; son, Marcial (Pam) and grandsons, Kiefer and Darien.
He was predeceased by his mother, Mary (Burtynski) Didier; his father, Marcial Antoine Didier; sister, Jeanice Marie (Didier) Hart and brother-in-law, Ken Hart.
Very recently retired, Joe and Carole were involved in the retail industry for 40 years with multiple stores in Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia. Their corporation, Indigo Developments Ltd., developed and operated 8 different stores at Hillside Shopping Centre during the 35 years as a tenant there.
Joe spent many fun filled and rewarding years as a member of the Sales and Marketing Executives of Victoria. He was elected as President of the local chapter in 1986 and then went on to serve on the International Board. Many lifelong friendships were developed while a member of this vibrant group.
Joe was a talented public speaker and received multiple awards during the time he attended Toastmasters.
Although the Didier family moved from Regina to Victoria in 1974, Joe remained a dedicated Rider fan and celebrated Grey Cup for 32 consecutive years with the same group of loyal friends, most particularly Ed and Suzanne Sjostrand.
He travelled extensively with his wife Carole and her parents, Roy and Alice Whitely but his favorite spot to visit was Tofino. He would drive there several times a year accompanied by his friend, Pat Bolen. The two of them loved to spend time sitting on the beach, roasting hot dogs, and solving the problems of the world. He also enjoyed going to Bellingham and meeting up with Al Ruskin where they would spend the weekend dining at fine restaurants and discussing business.
A Memorial Service will be held in MCCALL BROS. FLORAL CHAPEL, Johnson & Vancouver Streets, on Friday, July 24, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. with a reception to follow in the McCall’s Family Centre. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.mccallbros.com.
“Joe, your death has created a very large void in the lives of your friends, business colleagues and especially the members of your immediate and extended family. You accomplished the goals you set for yourself as a very young man. You will remain an example for your son and grandsons to follow.”
32 Responses
Dear Carole – I’m so very sorry for your loss. Joe was such a friendly, personable man. A pleasure to chat with when I’d see him in the Mall. You have my deepest sympathy.
Sandra Kurvers (Smollett)
Dear Carole and family,
Our love and support continues in this time of great change.
Though Joe is gone from his physical body, he remains in our hearts and in a much greater dimension.
Our memories of our times with the two of you are of fun, food, and laughter, simulating world dialogue and of prairie talk.
You as a couple, were great friends, role models in our community, role models in relationship, of service, of caring, of kindness, of personal responsibility and leaders that inspired us.
Joe is remembered as a proud father and grandfather, a great gentleman, kind, direct, respectful and responsible who modeled Gandhi “be the change that you want to see in the world”
Carole we are here for you today and tomorrow, with much love
Elaina and David
Vancouver