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
Remembering my friend Joe,
Joe, you were a special friend, the kind of guy who you don’t see for a long time but when we got together, it was like we had never been apart.
You had a way of saying, “Mr. Pennock, Mr. Mickelberry, everyone was Mr. this or Mr. that. You gave the word “Mr.” new meaning.
I’ll never forget the parties you and Carole had, always a politician in attendance, always one of your old friends from some place far away, always lots of people, lots of good food, lots of fun and ALWAYS a game to play.
I recall the SME conferences at the Alderbrook Resort on the Hood Canal, at Bend OR, Eugene, or how about the year we hosted the summer conference in Victoria, all made more special by you being there.
I remember the Ralph Palmer conference that you and I booked. We thought it made such good sense, even though Al Pennock thought we had lost our minds, but we did make money!
I’ll never forget the time you and Carole and Barb and I flew down to a conference in Monterey CA in the Cessna 177. I was playing with the fuel tank selector, didn’t have it properly set and about 75 miles outside of Reno the engine quit at 7,000 feet, only the sound of the wind. All I could hear besides the silence and the wind was your heart beating and a loud gurgling sound as you downed a straight shot of Stolly. It wasn’t until I turned the fuel switch to the “on” position and the engine started again that you actually began breathing.
The memories will last forever my friend; it’s too bad you had to leave us so soon. You were special Joe, and Barb and I and all your friends will always remember the great times we had together.
Thank you for being a part of our lives
Your friends, Gary and Barb, Hemet, Ca
(As read by Elaina at the service)
Hello Carole…Jacques and I were so very sorry to hear about Joe. Although we met him only twice, we did have such a delightful tme that we have never forgotten him…he was truly a person that left an impression. I have not stopped thinking about you. Let me just say that if you ever just need to get away from the familiar, you will always be welcome to come and visit us. Our very sincere condolences to you and your family and friends.
Sharon
It is with such saddness, Carole and Marcial, that we read of the death of Jo. It came as quite a shock. He was such a vibrant personality and fun to know. Although those Parkside days are far in the past now, it seems like not that long ago when we all were forging ahead in careers and parenting and the future seemed unending.
We wish for you a tight circle of family and friends to support you at this time.
We are very sorry for your loss. Everyone will miss seeing and speaking with Joe at the rink. Our thoughts are with you .
Carol and family:
I returned to the office today and heard the astounding news about Joe. I am so sorry and extend my deepest sympathy to you and your family.
From reading the many many condolence messages it certainly appears that Joe was alot of fun and had many friends and some great memories. Something to hold on to.
I will talk to you soon Carol. Take Care.
Sorry for your loss Marcial…….all the best.
Carol,Marcial,And Family
Our thoughts & prayers are with you,at this difficult time
Rembering the good times we had ,when we lived in Victoria.
Dianne Rhodes
I’m so sorry to learn of your husband’s death. Pete Bober sent me an email. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers and that Joe may rest in peace with all of God’s blessings.
Jaquie Gudmundsen
Dear Carole
We felt great sadness after hearing of the passing of your dear Joe.
Lorna and Earle Anthony called us last night with the news.
We have some good memories of our time spent in Victoria with you and your friends. Had some good parties.
We’ll be in touch.
Ada and Stuart
Carol and Family
We send our thoughts with you…still talk about the dinner at your home a few months ago. We were pleased to finally get to know you more. Then Joe coming up our driveway last month to check out our new car…
Our thoughts and condolences are with you
Doug & Lucy Denham