Born in Baalbek, Lebanon, Joseph was the son of Boulos and Howla Chamoun, originally of Saraain. His father’s service as a mounted police officer took the family throughout the Beqaa Valley, giving Joseph a childhood shaped by many places, though Saraain always remained closest to his heart.
In 1957, Joseph embarked on a 28-day voyage to Brazil, an experience he often recalled with vivid emotion. He spent nine years working and travelling in São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Belo Horizonte before returning to Lebanon in 1966. There he met his true love, Theresa Nasser, and they married in September 1969. The couple settled in Ablah, where they welcomed their sons, Fadi (1970) and Paul (1971).
In 1975, Joseph and his young family moved to Canada to escape the war in Lebanon, briefly returning home before settling permanently in Calgary in 1979, where they built a full and happy life. Joseph cherished fishing trips with his sons at McGregor Lake, camping, celebrating birthdays with his grandchildren, and sharing Lebanese food with friends over a glass of arak.
Joseph is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Theresa; his sons Fadi (Nayla) and Paul (Lorena); and seven cherished grandchildren: Joseph, Noelle, Amadeo, Marc, Yara, Madelyn, and James. He is also survived by his brother Sami (Nina), as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family.
He was preceded in death by his parents Boulos and Howla, sister Latifi and brothers George and Fariz.
A Funeral Service will be held at Our Lady of Peace Maronite Catholic Parish, 504 30 Avenue N.W., Calgary, on Saturday, December 27, at 11:00 a.m. Viewing will begin at 10:30 a.m. prior to the service.
Interment will follow at Queen’s Park Cemetery, 3219 4 Street N.W.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Maronite Catholic Parish of Calgary.
