Joseph "Joe" Alfons Braunmiller

Joe was born on March 11, 1936, to Alfons and Catherine (Archibald) Braunmiller and grew up on High Street in Sydney. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, generosity, family dedication and community spirit. Reflecting his lifelong spirit of adventure, Joe joined the United States Air Force after high school, an experience that gave him a lifetime of stories to share with family and friends. After several years in the U.S., he returned home to Cape Breton to help in the family butcher shop, founded by his father, on Johnson Street in Sydney. Together with his life partner, Connie, he grew the family business into a thriving food distribution company, Ideal Foods. In recognition of his lifelong commitment to both business and community, Joe was inducted into the Cape Breton Business and Philanthropy Hall of Fame in 2017.

Joe was a proud member of the Sydney Kinsmen Club. He truly lived the Kinsmen motto, “To Serve the Community’s Greatest Need.” As Club President, he devoted countless hours to fundraising for local causes such as the Kinsmen Centre, a day program for adults with intellectual disabilities. Joe and Connie carried their giving spirit into family life, donating each year to the local women’s shelter with backpacks, school supplies, and Christmas gifts.

Above all, Dad’s greatest love was his family. He found immense joy in family gatherings, vacations, and holidays surrounded by those he loved most. His grandchildren were his greatest pride, and he never missed a chance to attend their games, school events, or simply spend time as their beloved “Gramps.” From dressing up as Santa, collecting shells on Florida beaches, to hosting summer barbecues by the pool, Dad created countless cherished memories for all of us.

Joe and Connie found a deep sense of community in their Hanart neighborhood, enjoying many happy times snowmobiling, skating on the lake, caring for their property, and entertaining family and friends. Joe treasured his friendships deeply — his daily morning coffees and lunches at Kay’s Kozy Corner became highlights of his later years.

Joe is survived by his children Darlene (Alan) Soulsby (Annapolis Royal), Brenda (Glenn) MacKay (Fall River), and Darryl (Jennie) Braunmiller (New York City); his brother-in-law Larry; and his beloved grandchildren Robyn and Lauren Soulsby, Benjamin Braunmiller, and Jack and Ava MacKay. He is fondly remembered by his extended family, including his many nieces and nephews: the Campbells of Gesner Point (Mira), the MacLeans formerly of Rigby Road (Sydney), the Davidsons formerly of Dartmouth, and the Braunmillers formerly of Howie Centre.

Joe was predeceased by his loving wife of 53 years, Connie; his sister Marie Davidson; brother Gary Braunmiller; sisters-in-law Flossie MacLean, Bev Braunmiller, and Dorothy Campbell; and brothers-in-law Frank MacLean, Roy Campbell, and Donnie Campbell.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Parkland for their compassionate care, and to Joe’s devoted home care worker, Pam, whose friendship meant so much to him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, November 6th at 2:00 PM, reception following, at T.W. Curry Parkview Chapel, with interment to follow at Oakfield Cemetery, Mira.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to your charity of choice.