Byron John Joseph

Sunrise: April 15, 1953 – Sunset: April 2, 2023

It is with great sadness we advise of the passing of our dear elder Chief Byron John Joseph. Byron started his journey at 3:55 am at Vancouver General Hospital, Vancouver, BC on April 2, 2023 surrounded by family. Byron was born to his late parents Stanley Joseph and Caroline (nee: Trimble) Joseph on April 15, 1953 at St. Paul’s Hospital. He grew up on Eslha7án̓ (Mission IR no. 1), Deep Cove (Burrard), and Georgia, USA. Byron attended Turner Elementary, St. Paul’s Day School, and Carson Graham Secondary School. Byron married his sweetie Brenda September 24, 1982. They had their children and raised them on X̱wemelch’stn (Capilano IR no. 5) Byron’s family shared him with various Indigenous sports, healing, and political organizations for decades. He spent his early working years at the golf course, Capilano RV park, and doing Carpentry. His love for helping others and dedication to his people drew him to successfully run for Squamish Nation Council. He served from 1982 – 2017. 36 years! He was the longest standing member with Indian Residential School Survivors Society (IRSSS) board for over 25 years.

Byron was a proud Indigenous man and loved to attend Powwows, Spiritual & Cultural Work, Canoe Journey, Longhouse, and especially Slahal games. Byron drew his strength from his ancestors. He was empathetic, kind, loving, intelligent and generous with his teachings. He enjoyed reading, being in nature, beading, meditation, drumming, singing, playing his harmonica, and listening to the blues. He enjoyed playing and coaching: basketball, soccer, softball, and lacrosse. He coached all his kids through their years in lacrosse North Shore Indians and Team BC. Byron will best be remembered for his unwavering positivity, unconditional love, and hearty laugh.

He is survived by his loving wife Brenda Gail Joseph(nee: Douglas), children Sandra Lafontaine(Jaret), Kono Douglas (Tracy), Breanna Joseph(Michael), Bianca Cameron(Bronson), Kaiya Williams(Wilson); grandchildren Lillian George, Travis George Jr., Trevor Billy, Kono Douglas Jr., Brendan Douglas(Michelle), Kyoni Mercier(Maverick), Kaikanim Mercier, Nakoa Mercier, Jacob Holmes, Wilaiya Williams, Treleen Williams, Pearl Williams; great grandchildren Tyson Douglas, Kianna Douglas; siblings Vernon Joseph Sr., Caroline Joseph, Barbara Daniel, Soceye Baker and many loving relatives and dear friends.