Obituary of Joseph Dwyer

DWYER, Joseph Passed away peacefully on January 6, 2018, with the comfort and love of his family by his side at the age of 95. Joseph was born in Mitchell, ON and moved to St. Catharines in 1941. Joseph is predeceased by his parents Timothy Dwyer and Margaret Dwyer (DeCourcey), his wife Francesca (1992), sons Michael (1966) and Mark (2011), sisters Lucille and Rose and brothers Fergus and Frank. Joseph is survived by his brother Ed Dwyer (Gerry), daughter Joanne Grigg (Mike Richardson), grandchildren Lisa Grigg-Collings (Ron), Tara Gesner (Greg), Holly Dwyer Hall (Stephen), Amanda Dwyer, Mark Richardson (Leona) and his great grandchildren Gabriel Hall, Kathryn Collings and Marcela Richardson and dear friend Lucille Smith. Joseph was an employee of ETF Tools (1942-1987) where he was also a Charter Member of Local 4469 USWA and President of Local 19 ETF. He was a devoted member of the Cathedral of St. Catherine of Alexandria since 1941 and served as an usher for many years. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus #1394 since 1944, where he also held the role of Grand Knight for two terms. Joseph was a member of the St. Catharines Rowing Club Alumni Association (rower 1945-50) and he enjoyed coaching CYO and Steel Workers Hockey for several years. He was a dedicated volunteer driver for 10 years for the Canadian Cancer Society and volunteer coordinator arranging bus tours for the residents of Mount Carmel Retirement Residence. In 2016, Joseph was recognized by Big Brothers Big Sisters Niagara for his service and dedication for being a Big Brother and keeping connected with his “little brother” match for more than 32 years. Joseph lived an exceptional life. He kept active through walks and hiking, was an avid fan of thoroughbred horse racing and cherished road trips back to the family farm in his hometown. His practical approach to life, keen ability to listen, be supportive and loving was matched with his kind-hearted readiness to always help those in need. Visitation will be held at the Patrick J. Darte Funeral Chapel, 39 Court St., St. Catharines (905-685-6584)on Friday January 12, 2018 from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday January 13, 2018 at the Cathedral of St. Catherine of Alexandria at 10:30 a.m. Rite of Committal at Victoria Lawn Cemetery to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Wells of Hope or the Walker Family Cancer Centre would be appreciated by the family.