Obituary of Joseph Daniel Messer

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Joe Messer, “Papa Joe”, who departed this

world on December 29th, leaving behind a legacy of love and warmth. He is survived by his wife

Claire Sundin; sisters Vikki (Jeff) and Rose; brother-in-law Don (Kathy); his children Kevin

(Ardith), Scott (Marcie), Terri (Ezio); Claire’s children Trevor (Yvette), Kevin (Jacynda), Sheri

(Leland); and his grandchildren Colton, Tyler, Kalli, Dylan, Logan, Ryliegh, Connor, as well as

great-grandson Everett, along with numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Joe, one of nine children, began his journey as a flatlander on the family farm in Bromhead,

Saskatchewan. His life took diverse paths that reflected his unwavering spirit and diverse

talents. A brief stint in the army revealed his hidden gift as a boxer, leading him to clinch the title

in his weight category. Post-army, Joe sought his place in the working world, joining the Hudson

Bay Company to become a skilled butcher, earning a reputation as the go-to person for quality

cuts in the North Western town of Red Lake, Ontario.

Recognizing the limitations in small Northern towns, Joe turned to welding, a trade that would

unlock doors to a broader world. The west coast of Canada beckoned, with a

planned pitstop in Cranbrook that unexpectedly became a lifetime. He welcomed his in-laws,

Glenn and Inez Moore, expanding the Cranbrook clan to seven.

Joe's career in Cranbrook spanned roles as a butcher, welder, and millwright, where he made

substantial contributions. Yet, his focus always remained on family. His children and

grandchildren were the center of his universe, and he tirelessly imparted life's invaluable

lessons for decades.

Joe's love for the outdoors manifested in big game hunting, fishing, camping, and was known

for his legendary butchering of wild game. His dedication to preserving the environment found

expression through his active involvement with 'Ducks Unlimited,' where he not only worked in

the field but also contributed to fundraising efforts.

Eventually finding love with Claire, the two created a loving partnership that spanned many

joyful years, including idyllic times at Lake Koocanusa with family and friends. As the physical

demands of hunting, and baseball became too much for his knees, Joe redirected his energy

towards gardening, and crafting in his garage workshop for the next generations. His passing

has left a profound void in our family and the hearts of lifelong friends and acquaintances in

Cranbrook, but the legacy of his contributions and love will endure through the many lives he

touched.

We will be holding a celebration of life for Joe on January 19, 2024 at the Eagles Hall in

Cranbrook, BC, from 1pm-5pm. Please come and celebrate Dad’s life and share your stories

with us. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be directed to BC Diabetes,

which can be made at www.bcdiabetes.ca.