Born 1947 in Comox, Joe took up an interest within the BC forest industry out of high school, taking a job to work on the green chain piling lumber at Fields Sawmill on the Courtenay River, then branching out on his own. He spent over 55 years running Thomson Bros. Lumber Co., a family sawmill, alongside his brother Robert (predeceased) and his two sons. Turning local timber into homes, furniture, and memories for the community, he remained operating actively in the Comox Valley until his passing. He took pride in every cut, knowing the scent of fresh wood and the hum of the saw blade like an old friend.
Joe is survived by his wife of 38 years, Chanh; children Casimir (Jillian) and William (Melissa); and grandchild Roslyn.
A Memorial Service for Joe will be held November 19, 2025 at 1:00pm at the Courtenay Civic Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please plant a tree that can be cut for future generations.
