Joseph was born on December 14, 1935, at the Wadena Saskatchewan Hospital and was raised on the family farm near Lintlaw, Saskatchewan.

He received his early education by attending rural schools in Saskatchewan. The most popular mode of transportation was riding in horse drawn sleighs over rough terrain, and very often having to cope with unpredictable weather conditions. His high school years were spent at Saint Joseph’s Boys College in Yorkton, Saskatchewan. It was there that he and fellow classmates gained valuable culinary skills when they were designated to help the cooks in the dorm kitchen.

After high school, he selected Grand Forks, North Dakota, as his first-choice university and never regretted becoming an international student. Upon completion of his bachelor’s degree in biology, he then began pursuing a master’s degree in biology at the University of Saskatchewan. Midway through his studies, he met Charlotte Mazden, an RN, through a mutual friend. They continued their friendship and, after graduation, were married on June 23, 1967, in Saskatoon.

Post graduation, Joseph was fortunate to have a number of employment opportunities. He selected a position as a research biologist with the provincial government. A decision he has never regretted, as that culminated in a 30-year career. He spent approximately five years conducting research on antelope of Saskatchewan.

During his marriage with Charlotte, they were blessed with two children, son Neil and daughter Jo-Ann. Joseph was a caring father and was very proud of his children’s accomplishments, having both completed master’s degrees in their chosen fields.

He is survived by wife of 58 years, Charlotte; his two children, Neil and Jo-Ann (Randy) and grandson Jaxsen; Sisters in law Helen Wolf and Evelyn Arnold (deceased Feb. 14, 2026), as well as a number of nieces, nephews, cousins, and numerous friends from near and far.

He is predeceased by his parents, Helen and Steve Hnatiuk.

An Interment will be conducted by Tompkins Funeral Home at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Joseph’s name to the service dog program.