Joseph Carl Greenwood

Our beloved Joe passed away peacefully and rather unexpectedly on Tuesday, October 29, 2013, in the VG Site QEII, with his wife at his side. He remained an optimist to his very last breath, joking with his wife and his doctors, and discussing treatment options, only minutes before his passing. Born in Stouffville, Ontario, on August 3, 1939, he was the son of the late Richard “Al” and Isabelle (Ashenhurst) Greenwood. The lights in our world were dimmed and our hearts are heavy with sorrow.

He leaves to mourn his loving wife of 52 years, Thelma (Fox); the best daughter possible, Kelly Greenwood; a terrific son-in-law, Karl Penney; and his much loved and adored grandchildren, Kyle and Kira Penney, who brought great joy to his life. He was an active and proud grandfather and followed their many achievements, both scholastic and on sports fields for baseball, soccer, and golf, on ice rinks for hockey, ringette and curling and all of their summer activities at the Waegwoltic Club. He rejoiced in all their successes. He is also survived by siblings Beth Hannah, John Greenwood (both of Ontario) and Bob Greenwood (of BC), one niece and 6 nephews.

Joe started his career in the Canadian Armed Forces (Navy), training as an electrician and serving on many ships including the Bonaventure. He retired from the Navy early and joined Wesco as a salesman, and was promoted to Branch Manager position within a few years. His entrepreneurial spirit propelled him to open his own business as a Manufacturers’ Agent, which he operated successfully for many years before retiring.

A calm and wise man, he had a determined and unwavering positive outlook and strength of will. Always a gentleman, he faced the last few months with dignity and grace, was kind and caring and in the face of adversity was a pillar of strength. To have him as a husband, father and grandfather was to win the lottery of life. He left us with love in our hearts and great memories to last forever. Through all of us he will live on.

He was a long-time member of the CFB Halifax Curling Club; a former Lion; a member of Keith’s Masonic Lodge; a 38 year member of the Royal Canadian Legion, mostly at Scotia Branch, and then more recently at the Fairview Branch; a 31 year member of the Ashburn Golf Club, and he especially enjoyed his activities and friendships in the past few years with the GASPERS.

Joe was a voracious reader, catalogued all the books he had read, and still had a stack of books he wanted to read. Old-time friends will remember, and smile, at the many enjoyable activities and parties held at the cottage on Porters Lake.

Joe and Thelma happily enjoyed the last 21 winters at their home in Clearwater, Florida and enjoyed many loving friendships there. Joe became actively engaged in all activities available including cruises, travel excursions, social and sports activities such as bowling, golf and especially Shuffleboard games. Through stiff competition he earned the status of a “Professional” shuffleboard player and competed very successfully with the best player Florida had to offer, from several countries.

We send out sincere thanks to Dr. Gobran, the Palliative Care teams at Capital Health, the Red Cross, and the VON.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of J. A. Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Drive, Halifax, (455-0531). A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, November 5 at 2 pm in the Chapel. In lieu of flowers, a donation to your favourite charity would be appreciated. Joe especially liked to support Feed Nova Scotia. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.jasnowfuneralhome.com.