Joseph Alphonse Beaudry

It is with great sadness that the Beaudry family announces the passing of Joseph Raymond Beaudry (Joe), aged 86, at his home in Vernon, BC, on January 11th, 2025. Joe leaves behind his beloved wife of 64 years, Bernadette. He is also survived by seven children: Suzanne (Gord) of Lumby, Laurie (Tom) of Lumby, Marlene of Winfield, Claudette (Ken) of Winnipeg, Lisa (Adam) of Nanaimo, Michelle (Rob) of Nanaimo, and Raymond (Alana) of Kelowna. Additionally, he cherished his numerous grandchildren: Luke, Jarad, Katie, Lindsay, Ryan, Kirstin, Brittney, Grant, Shane, Chantel, Kassandra, Celine, Denis,

Viny, Cal, Dade, Bryn, Zane, Finn, Aurora, Halle, Eric, Kayne, Kiara, and many great grandchildren, along with countless friends. Joe is also survived by his sister Yvonne and brother Gene. He is predeceased by many brothers and sisters. Joe was born at St. Boniface Hospital in Winnipeg, MB, and grew up on a farm in South Junction, Manitoba, where he and his siblings were loved, grew, and had various chores they were responsible for. His first real job was hauling logs across Lake Manitoba, followed by several other jobs including night watchman and taxi driver. In 1955, Joe joined the military and served as a radio operator for five years, part of this time was spent overseas in Germany. It was in 1959 that Joe met the love of his life, Bernie, and they were married in 1960. The couple had their first two children while living in Winnipeg before moving to Salt Spring Island and then Saturna Island. They eventually settled in Surrey, where Joe was involved in the music ministry at their church and helped lead the youth group. In 1975, the family of nine moved to the Okanagan Valley, a place Joe lovingly referred to as a permanent vacation spot. In the Okanagan, Joe and a few friends founded their own concrete (not cement) business.

Joe and Bernie raised their family in this beautiful region. Once their last child left home, they embarked on a new adventure to Nakusp, where they built themselves a cozy home on the shores of the lake where many a gathering of their growing family were held as the years sailed by. Memories were built, never to be forgotten. They made numerous lasting friendships. While in Nakusp Joe had more time to spend on his woodworking hobby. He created numerous cherished toys, intarsia artwork and furniture pieces for family, friends and sold them at the local Farmer’s Market. Their children and grandchildren visited often, creating many cherished memories. Joe understood true wealth lies in family, friends, and health, and he was a pillar of every community he touched, a model of fairness in business. We cherished his lively stories, including the many different versions of how he lost half his thumb. With his legendary waxed and curled stache and rugged features, he embodied kindness, love, faith, and true grit. Joe was always conscious of his guardian angel. He would ask God to give him a rookie angel to look after him while he sent his angel to someone in need. Joe's legacy of love, dedication, and hard work will live on through his family and the many lives he touched. He was known for his even nature, his ability to connect with others as well as debate topics and remain friends. He did not judge others, was compassionate and humble. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. "May the Lord receive you with open arms and grant you eternal peace and rest. Until we meet again at that big campfire in the sky."

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to Joe’s favourite charity. https://chalice.ca

A Memorial Mass for Joseph will be held Monday, January 20, 2025 at 11:00 AM at St. James Catholic Church, 2607 27 Street, Vernon, British Columbia V1T 4W1.