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, family and friends,
In 1982, I was fortunate to join a great organization of business leaders, Sales and Marketing Executives International, Victoria Chapter. It was to be a pivotal moment in my life. That is how I met Joe, Carole, my closest friends for life, and eventually my partner and Past SME President of Seattle, Lynn. We are grateful that Carole and Joe attended our wedding in 1994.
Many times, we reflect on that period and find great interest in the current web site of SME Victoria listing all its Past Presidents. The site quotes Tom Peters: “Leaders don’t create followers-they create more leaders.” Joe was a great mentor and leader. Many of you know Joe’s succinct way of getting a point across and his passion for fiscal responsibility. He inspired us to be the best that we could be as leaders and as an organization. He “passed the torch” with grace, caring, and a lot of class! We know his spirit will continue to do that for us, and those of his current realm.
We all mourn the loss of Joe and celebrate the wonderful gifts that he shared so freely with us.
Blessings to all,…………………..Gary and Lynn Lunden, Walla Walla, WA
Carole, Marcial……
I was shocked and quite saddened to learn of Joey`s death.
The gang at the Cadillac Ski School here at Shawnigan as well as myself, have a ton of great memories of Joe and yourselves having a good time and mixing it up with everyone throughout the years. Carole, Joe and yourself were key figures at our annual “Parent`s Day” where Joey was always ready for a good laugh and a good story with the group..
Joe`s generosity was well known of course, a prime example being the donation of his pool table and Bicentennial cue to a group of his son Marcial`s friends, as they moved into a large home back in the late 80`s. We were, and still are grateful to Joey for that, as his generosity spawned some great stories and long friendships. That is just one of many good memories i have of Joey.
Carole, ….life is really about making the good memories as we go along, and Joe definitely made those memories happen for myself and many others. I know that you will miss him dearly.
Marcial,…we always felt your Dad was like one of the boys and he will be really missed…he made his mark on us. You can be proud of him that`s for sure.
Carole, Marcial…please accept my condolences and i do hope to speak with you at the service. Regards….Ken Worth
My dearest Carole and family, how very sad for you all. My thoughts and love will be with you all on Friday. I have very many fond memories of being in Joe’s and your company and will treasure them always.
Unfortunately, I will not be in Victoria Friday but will be thinking of you.
Love Leta
I just heard the news about Joe.
Words can’t express how shocked and sorry we are.
You and Joe were always the highlight of our market week
appoinments. I will miss our dinners at Centre Street Deli.
He was a wondeful man and his honesty and integrity
will always be remembered.
Elaine and I will always remember our times together.
We will try to touch base with you shortly.
May he rest in peace and he will always be remembered by those
whose path he crossed.
With our best wishes
Elaine and Sam Rochman
Havana Tex Inc.
prayers and thoughts are with you carol and marceil and family take care dave and shirley horner
Hi Carole.
Our sincere condolences to you and your family on Joe’s sudden passing. May your many personal and business friends be support for you during these sorrowful times and beyond.
Our very best regards.
Marion & Dan Gallant
A 30 year connection that will be sorely missed. I sent Carole some
of my thoughts regarding the myriad things we did and what a joy
it was each time we got together.
It was wonderful seeing the interaction between you, Carole and
Marcel and how Ed and Suzanne, Pat Bolen, Al Ruskin and Roy
and Alice enjoyed your company.
Your passing leaves a BIG hole in my heart.
Randy and Anne Silver
I am extremely shocked and saddened to hear of Joe’s passing. He was a wonderful person, always there for a coffee and chat.
One thing that cannot be taken away from you, Carol, is your memories, which are many. Hold onto them, cherish them, he will always live on in your heart.
My heartfelt sympathy goes to you and your family.
Marlene.
Our heartfelt sympathy, thoughts & prayers go out to you Carol and your family! We were so saddened to have heard that Joe passed away. We always enjoyed the visits we shared with you and Joe.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your bereavement.
Glorie & Don Brailsford
Hi Carole & Marcial & Family
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sorrowful time.
Our memories of Joe will be in our hearts forever, we had such good times together. Sorry we can’t make it out to the service but we will be at the service in Conquest.
Love Jim & Rita