OLI PJETUR JOSEPHSON

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OLI PJETUR JOSEPHSON Peacefully on March 29, 2005, with all of his family by his side, Oli Pjetur Josephson passed away. Oli was born August 31, 1923, at his family's homestead named Melstadur, near Gimli. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Rosebjorg; his father Oli Josephson; mother Rosa; his sister Mona Chopek; and brother Valtyr (Walter) Josephson. Dad leaves to mourn and cherish his memory his children, Rick (Caroline) Josephson, Jonena (Frank) Bell and Peter (Wendy) Josephson; and his grandchildren, Kristjan, Bethan, Katherine, Adam, Johann, Alexander and Jack. Dad is survived by brothers-in-law, Brodie Thordarson of Gimli and Paul Chopek of Kelowna, BC; and sister-in-law Margaret Josephson of Gimli; and many nieces and nephews. Dad was proud of his family, his Icelandic heritage and his long and colourful career in the fishing and related industries. He began his career at the age of 14, fishing with his father at George's Island on Lake Winnipeg. He subsequently worked with Arnason Dairies and Sigfuson Transportation, making lifelong friends in the process. He returned to his love of the fishing industry again with his father and Uncle Simbi, forming Josephson Brothers and Son, a company which operated a fish station at Rabbit Point (known today as Princess Harbour). While maintaining his interest in Josephson Brothers and Son, he joined Armstrong Gimli Fisheries as a clerk in the Gimli office. This position culminated in the early 60s with Oli assuming the role of General Manager Western Canada for B.C. Packers Ltd. With the formation of the Freshwater Fish Marketing Corporation, Oli was called upon to create, implement and direct the Fisheries Loan Board for the province of Manitoba. In this capacity he was able to continue his association with the fishing industry until his retirement in 1988. Oli made significant contributions to the community at large through his volunteer work with the Kinsmen, Betel Foundation and his generous support of many charities. In his latter years, at the urging of his grandchildren, Oli completed a chronicling of his life history. A constant theme throughout these memoirs, whether the stories dealt with family, friends or business, was Oli's great sense of dignity, respect, trust, love and his unfailing sense of fairness. The family would like to extend its deepest appreciation and thanks to Dr. Tomy and the nursing staff of the Victoria General Hospital. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Manitoba Heart and Stroke Foundation or the Manitoba Kidney Foundation. In keeping with Dad's wishes, a private graveside service will be held prior to the memorial service. In celebration of Oli's life, a service will be held on Saturday, April 2 at 2:00 p.m. at the Gimli Lutheran Church with Pastor Sauer officiating. Gilbart Funeral Chapel, Gimli in care of arrangements.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 31, 2005