JOSEPH SOPOTIUK

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JOSEPH SOPOTIUK On Friday, September 28, 2001 with family by his side. Devoted and loving husband for more than 48 years to Doreen. Also survived by his children, Geri (Ian), Laura (Dirk), Owen (Kristin), Alison (Heng), Tony, and Dallas (Scott) and his four grandchildren, the joys of his life. Joe will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his step-mother, Marie Sopotiuck of Vernon and by his brothers and sisters, Bill (Pearl), Anne (pre-deceased by Frank), John, Peter, Betty (Alfred) step-brother Joe (Arlene) step-sister Judy (Frank) half-brother Alex; and half-sister Helen, as well as by other family members and many friends. Joe was born in Barvas, Saskatchewan on December 27, 1931. In 1942 the family moved to Lac du Bonnet, MB where he eventually met his bride. Joe and Doreen were married in Winnipeg on January 22, 1953. While in Lac du Bonnet, Joe began working in the grocery business, which he then continued in Winnipeg. From 1956 to 1962 Joe worked for the Hudsons Bay Company, managing the grocery section in various stores in Ontario. Upon returning to Winnipeg in 1962, Joe became partners with his former employer, Harry Springman, and four years later bought him out. Joe and Doreen continued to operate Springmans Super Shopper until 1976, when they sold the store and moved to Victoria. Shortly after arriving in Victoria Joe began selling industrial lighting for Daytron (now Public Service Lighting) and immediately became their top salesman nationwide, which he remained until the necessity of caring for his ailing wife as well as his own poor health caused him to reduce but never totally give up his sales. He also sold for Albrite Lighting. Joe was extremely loyal and he was greatly appreciative of the loyalty his customers showed him in return, both in the grocery and the lighting business. He was also a generous man, donating to many charities, Foster Parents Plan being one especially close to his heart, but also just helping out with a little something whenever he encountered someone in need. Joe was an avid reader, always interested in learning new ways to improve the mind, body and spirit. He was also not afraid of just being silly sometimes, a trait which endeared him to his grandchildren. Family was by far his greatest joy; "Family Dinner" being the highlight of his week. No service by request, but a reception celebrating Joes life will be held Friday, October 5 from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Joe and Doreens home, 1020 Bank Street, Victoria. In lieu of flowers a donation to the charity of ones choice would be appreciated. Thank you to everyone at the Palliative Care and Hospice Unit for the wonderful care Joe received both at home and in hospital. "Im not sleeping, Im studying."

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 03, 2001