Our hearts break as we share the news of Joe’s passing on Sunday, May 30 at the North Okanagan Hospice Society,
He will be greatly missed by his sons Robert (Wendy), Stan (Ruth), Michael (Kara), his daughter Theresa (Michael), and his grandchildren Chrystal (Dominic), Daniel, Cohen, Beck, and Sienna.
He was born and raised in Olds and, even though he travelled with work after marrying Josephine, he chose to return to Olds to raise his own family. Joe valued family, community, and nature. Being an auto mechanic for 30 years was not just his profession but also his passion. The sock oil filter was his favourite story. His love of the outdoors took his family on many adventures: canoeing, camping, road trips, and Sunday drives to a sunny picnic spot. That same love of the outdoors has been instilled in all his children. Two years ago, he fulfilled a life-long dream…to live in B.C. The family almost lost Joe prior to his move west but, after settling into Vernon, he became known as the Miracle Man. Very few medical staff had ever seen such an amazing recovery: from full-term care to living in his own apartment again. He continued his adventures: country drives in a classic car, fresh apple pie from an orchard, Sunday dinners with family, fire pit and hotdogs high up in the mountains, and even swimming.
The children are forever grateful they could make his dream come true. And, they are forever grateful for their parents, Joe and Josephine Benedek, who led by example, instilled values and character, worked tirelessly, and loved their family endlessly. We love you, forever and always.
Due to COVID restrictions, the graveside service will be for immediate family members only. There will be a visitation for other family and friends on Thursday, June 10 from 3:30 to 5:30 PM at Heartland in Olds. A full memorial service will take place later in the year. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Olds and District Hospice Society.
