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 and Family,
We were so sorry and shocked to learn of your loss. I was so pleased to be able to attend the lovely tribute to Joe today. So brave of Marcial and Kiefer, they both did so well, Joe was so very proud of them, there can be no doubt about that!. Sorry Bev could not come as she was looking after our little Granddaughter.
Pat Bolen paid tribute to his dear friend so very beautifully.
Our love and thoughts
Bev and Doug Provost
Hello Carole,
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Although, I did not know Joe, it is easy to tell by the testimony of others that he was a great guy. My thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Pete Bober
Carol:
I was so sorry to hear about Joe’s sudden passing. Joe was a wonderful role model for me at Sales & Marketing Executives, professional and always with a twinkle in his eye. Over the years it was a great pleasure working with both of you at your stores in Hillside Mall.
Jan Noble Grewar
Carole
I am very sorry to hear of the passing of Joe. He was an inspiration to me and everyone else at Communicators toastmasters. He was also a Mentor and friend during my days with SME. I always enjoyed his warm hellos as we passed in the halls of the Hillside Mall. Your retirement together should not have started ( or ended) like this and I am am truly sorry for your loss.
Phil and Erica Edney
My mother called me today to tell me this sad news. My heart goes out to you Marcial, Carole and all family members. I have fond memories of Joe and knew him to be a great father to my good buddy Marcial, a good neighbor and great community member. Thanks for the memories.
Graham Newberry
Dear Carole,
I was shocked and saddened to see the news of Joe in the paper. Your friends at Peninsula Singers send their love and condolences at this sad time. May you share many beautiful memories together as you remember him.
Lynda Spence
My father Ed Sjostrand moved to Victoria from Regina in the fall of 1973. In 1974 , the Didiers moved out too. It was the beginning of the Regina Group and other couples were added as the years progressed. What a group they are!
Joe was my fathers Best Man and I was Suzanne’s Maid of Honour at their wedding. During the preparations Joe let slip the name of the hotel they were staying at as Ed and Suzanne were very tight lipped about it. My girlfriend and I only left a note on their car in the parking lot saying “We know where you are” It was a few years before I told them who had slipped up! Joe was quite chagrined when he found out.
Joe also gave a eulogy at my Dad’s funeral which helped Suzanne and I through a sad time in our lives.
Joe was a great friend and I am sorry that I won’t be able to attend the service. I’ll miss you Joe. God bless.
Paula, Frank and Sir Alex
Dear Carole and family,
Our deepest sympathies in your great loss. I an still in disbelief that Joe is no longer with us. Without question Joe was my closest friend. I will miss him dearly. I will always remember our get togethers where we would do little but talk, relax and enjoy good restaurants. I remember the time we almost missed our plane in Moscow. ( the rest of our group were not exactly thrilled with us) Somehow Joe, I think you will be reading this, I know you are now in a much finer place and are completely happy. You are probably checking out interesting things and places in your new world. Joe, you will be missed and remembered.
Love, Al and LaRaine
Carole our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.
Carole,
My heart goes out to you in this very difficult time on the death of your beloved husband. Although I didn’t know him personally, from his obituary, he was a very wonderful and loved man by many. Please accept my condolences. I’ll be keeping you in my prayers.
Joan E. Knapp