Joe was a highly educated individual who had a passion for learning and teaching. He attended St. Antony’s Grade School, Old Rattlesnake Grade School, St. Francis Xavier Grade School, and Missoula County High School, graduating in 1953. After high school, he continued his education at Gonzaga University, graduating in 1957. He later received his teaching certificate from the University of Montana in 1962.

Following graduation, Joe served in the US Army’s Computer sector during the Berlin Crisis (Berlin Wall construction) and was stationed at Fort Lewis, Washington. After three months of service, he was honorably discharged. Joe then embarked on his teaching career, accepting a position at the US Naval Air Station in Adak, Alaska, where he taught biology, chemistry, and math. In his spare time, he enjoyed panning for gold.

Driven by his love for education, Joe pursued further studies at the University of Montana, earning a master’s degree in teaching Biological Sciences. He eventually settled in Canada, teaching in Claresholm, Vulcan, and spending many years at the Lethbridge Collegiate Institute (LCI) before retiring.

Joe was a man whose unwavering Catholic faith guided him through life’s trials and tribulations. It was this same faith that led him to Anna. Together, they embarked on a journey of love and devotion, bound by this shared faith.

In 2002, Joe married Anna Travaglia and became part of her extended family. He was welcomed by Anna’s children and grandchildren, including Diana and Livio Pavan (Andria and Derek Meers - Audrey, Lyndon, and Connor; Jordan and Megan Pavan - Mason, Emilia, and Jack; Alyssa and Austen Murray – Cash, Leo, and Elliot), Laura James (Alanna, Justin, and Zachary), and Ed and Roxanne Travaglia (Nick, Ally, and Ciana).

Joe had a green thumb and took great pride in growing a variety of tomato plants, generously sharing the harvest with others. He also tended a large garden on a farm owned by his dear friend, Jack, and occasionally set off a cannon (safely) to deter deer, birds, and other creatures from feasting on his plants.

His culinary skills were equally impressive. Joe’s apple pie, with its award-winning crust, earned him a Blue Ribbon at a State Fair. He also enjoyed baking bread and cinnamon buns, which he happily shared with friends and family.

Despite living in Canada, Joe remained loyal to his American roots. He cheered on the Gonzaga University Bulldogs, whether watching games on TV or his computer.

Joe, you will be missed. Rest easy and soar with the angels.

A Prayer Service will be held at ST. BASIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH, 604 – 13 Street North, Lethbridge, AB, on Monday, May 13, 2024 at 7:00 P.M. with Deacon Jim Manzara officiating.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at ST. BASIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH on Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 11:30 A.M. with Father Santiago Torres celebrating.