Joseph Butala

It is with broken hearts that the family of Joe Butala announce his peaceful passing in Cranbrook, BC, on Friday, October 11, 2024 at the age of 74.

Joe was born in Slovenia on February 25, 1950 to parents Joseph and Mary Butala. They later welcomed his brother Frank, and the family immigrated to Canada in 1958.

Once in Harrogate, BC, Joe’s family further grew with sisters Helena and Pauline. The family of six eventually made Golden, BC, their permanent home.

Joe met wife Patricia (Pat) Nickerson in Golden and they were married on November 3, 1973. They welcomed two children, Kiley and Curtis. They enjoyed summers camping and fishing in the Kootenay Valley with family and friends. Joe was a caring and protective father and husband, and he always made time to help others, even others he did not know well.

Joe worked many years at the local lumber mill, formerly known as Evan’s Forest Products. He particularly took pride in training the youth there. Joe also kept busy by running a gutter business, working as an apartment manager and by fixing and selling cars.

In 2011, Joe and Pat moved from Golden to Cranbrook. A less busy life allowed Joe more time to enjoy his semi-retirement by fishing and hunting in the local area. Joe also now had more time to spend with the greatest loves of his life, his six amazing grandchildren. He loved teaching them the art of fishing and never became upset if one of them were to hook a bigger fish than he. Joe showered his grandkids with love, compliments, valuable advice and encouragement. He was never one to judge.

Sadly, Joe’s wife Patricia passed away in August 2016. Joe made sure to provide Kiley and Curtis with even more support with the sad loss of their mother.

In Cranbrook, Joe really enjoyed the eight years he worked in the Facilities Department at the College of the Rockies. He officially retired in 2019. Joe cherished the friendships he made there and he always looked forward to their gatherings outside of work.

In 2020, Joe met his companion, Sharon Shmyr. They enjoyed numerous road trips visiting friends and family. Joe’s family was happy that he found someone caring like him and that Sharon also enjoyed his wit and humour. His family is also grateful for the love and the support that Sharon gave to Joe.

Joe is survived by his daughter Kiley (Brent) Bromley, and son Curtis (Amanda) Butala. His six grandchildren; Cruze, Sophie, Ella, Gibson, Nash and Mila. His brother Frank Butala and sisters Helena Fuoco and Pauline (Bob) Tegart. His companion Sharon and dog Enzo. His Aunt Mima Horvat, many nieces and nephews, brothers and sisters in law, cousins, extended family in Slovenia and by the many friends he treasured.

Joe is predeceased by his parents, Mary and Joseph and his wife Patricia.

Joe’s family wishes to thank Palliative care nurses Jenna and Debbie for their kindness and support at the time of his passing. Thank you to Hindman Bowers Funeral Home in Golden, BC, for handling arrangements.

He will always be remembered and greatly missed.

A celebration of life will take place on Saturday June 14th from 12-3 pm at the sacred Heart Catholic Church Hall 808 11th St S Golden, BC