With broken hearts we announce the sudden accidental death in Guelph of our gentle giant Joe on March 7, 2020 at the age of 36. The current crisis suddenly becomes horribly real and we join the club that no one wants to be part of. Joe leaves behind his amazing children Ella and Ryan, parents Mary and Dan, brother Rob and sister-in-law Christina, nieces Lili (Liam), Ava and Emme, and nephews Malcolm and the late Brennan. Grandson to the late Ann & Art Slater and the late Bob & Georgina Speers. Beloved nephew and cousin to many. Thanks to all those at the Guelph Drop In Center, who incredibly helped us to find Joe within such a short time, especially Bobby. I believe in miracles. Also to Clay, Arthur, Tammy, Melissa, Emmanuel, Jenn and all the others he, and we, encountered - our thanks. To the people from Lakeside Hope House, particularly Bang, Michael and Bob, then EMS, Police and ER staff, who gave us that precious last week to be with him. To ICU also at Guelph General, Dr. Lala, all of the awesome nurses, technicians, cleaning staff, Trillium Coordinators, Ann for the treasured quilts, and loaning a guitar. Mark O’connell and Bang, BobHe Guitar Quinn (for the inspiration), and Paul. All the visits and things you said about Joe touched our heart. You do such essential work, especially during this scary time. All of it gives us comfort, and help us to know he intended to come back to us. All of you helped to be his family and friends when we couldn’t be. To Pastor Kevin Coghill and those at Royal City Mission thanks for helping Joe, and when we knew we weren’t able to have him back allowed us to say goodbye in our (and his) unique way. A “walk of honour” was given him by hospital staff as we escorted him to fulfil his choice to donate that kind heart so someone else can live on. Two others received a new kidney and a chance for a better future. This help us cope while we miss him by knowing that some good came from his senseless death. Because of the diseases that caused him to doubt himself and our love for him, he has endured so much pain over the last few years. Don’t underestimate your ability to make changes and reach out for help to do it. If Joe somehow inspired you, he would be happy. He believed in goodness - kindness, acceptance, friends and family. The viciousness of addiction has taken him from us all, but did’t win if we believe the best parts of him have affected us and will inspire others to fight the good fight and help each other.. To all who were fond of Joe, please continue to do what you can to help each other as you helped him. What a tribute to Joe to help someone who is struggling, to see and believe in the good in yourself and others. Our gratitude for the incredible community there who helped us and Joe with kindness and compassion, patience and understanding. For anyone who may have been missed (or whose names I can’t remember) we ask your understanding and send our thanks. Joe’s family, friends, and community in Sault Ste Marie and elsewhere, have donated to the Drop In Center, Royal City Mission and Hope House to honour him by helping others.
