Jose Homem da Silva

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved father, José Homem Silva who left us after a courageous fight, always smiling and humming until the very end.

Joe was born on June 16th, 1934, in San Antonio, on the island of Sao Miguel, Azores, Portugal. He was one of twelve siblings and grew up in a home filled with love and hard work. It was there that he met the love of his life, our mother Marieta Silva. They even shared a birthday, just one year apart. They were truly meant to walk this journey of life together. After almost 12 years as a widower, Joe has now reunited with his one and true love.

Before immigrating to Canada in 1964, Joe worked on the family farm, served in the army, worked as a suit maker and was a truck driver helping expand the docks in Portugal. Upon arriving in Canada, he began working for Northwood as a flat deck loader, a job he dedicated himself to until his retirement in 1998.

The rest of the family stayed in Portugal while Joe, with the help of the Portuguese community in Upper Fraser helped build the family home where laughter, hard work shared meals and gallons of wine filled their weekends. Our mother, John, Delia and Mary joined our father in 1970. In 1972 the family grew, and Joe became a proud father to Sandy, a Canadian made baby with Portuguese parts.

As the family needs changed, Joe made the selfless decision to move them to Prince George, providing them with a better life while he continued commuting three hours daily to Upper Fraser and back. He never missed a day of work- waking at 4am and returning home after 5pm, always with a smile and tune to hum.

Joe’s greatest joy in life was his family. He was a devoted father to four, a proud grandfather of eight, and a loving great grandfather of three. He was always up for anything – whether dressing in a funny costume to make others laugh, cooking a delicious meal, or taking care of his beloved Marieta. He had an infectious sense of humor, a gift for storytelling, and a deep love for his family and friends. He loved to play games and most of all he loved to win.

Joe had the opportunity to travel to Portugal multiple times with different family members over the years. He was always proud to show his loved ones where he came from, ensuring they would never forget their roots.

In his final days, Joe faced every challenge with incredible strength and gratitude. Despite everything he went through, he continued to hum, smile and appreciate every person who cared for him. The hospital staff adored him for his kindness and joy, just as everyone who knew him did.

Joe leaves behind a legacy of hard work, laughter, love and resilience. His spirit will live on in the memories of his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched.

Rest easy, Dad – you are deeply loved and will never be forgotten.

A prayer service will be held at Sacred Heart Cathedral on Tuesday, February 18th at 7pm. The Funeral service will take place at Sacred Heart Cathedral on Wednesday, February 19th, at 10:00am followed by the burial at the Prince George cemetery. A lunch reception will be held back at the church following the burial.