In Celebration of
Joseph Knezetic
January 3, 1940 -
September 24, 2021
Beloved husband, father of two, brother to three sisters, and grandfather, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family at the Dorothy Ley Hospice on September 24th . A gentle, hardworking soul, with a kind word and smile for friends, family, and all others who crossed his path, he will be deeply missed. Joseph led a joyful life, with a heartfelt and genuine commitment to the Canadian-Croatian, and broader community. All will remember Joseph’s wonderful sense of humour, and outgoing nature. He was always ready to lend a helping hand, and truly practiced in his daily life the golden rule, treat others as you would want to be treated.
Joseph was born in Durlinci, Croatia, to Jura and Maria Knezetic. As a young man he trained as a
blacksmith, completed his military service, and ran a successful business with his father in his
hometown. Joseph married the love of his life Marica in 1966, and they made the decision to
move abroad, first to Germany, and then setting in Canada, a country he dearly loved. He was
honoured to become a citizen, and call Canada home for 50 years.
After arriving in Canada, Joseph spent most of his working years with Canadian Tire, where he
made many life-long friendships, and greatly enjoyed his work. He cherished holidays, and
family gatherings, and was often happiest when surrounded by his immediate, and extended
family. In later life he looked forward to the laughter and play of his grandchildren. At home,
when he wasn’t busy raising his children, working on his many household projects, or resting in
his sunroom, he could be found in his garden, growing tomatoes, cucumbers, and all manner of
vegetables. Gardening would remain a lifelong passion, one which he cultivated and enjoyed.
Joseph is survived by his wife Marica, his two children Daniel (Sharon) and Darlene (Chardin), his grandchildren
Carter and Scarlett, as well as his three sisters, Katica, Dragica, and Danica. Joseph’s family and
friends know that he is now at peace in a better place, and in words attributed to St. Augustine,
he has moved out of shadows and imaginings, and into truth. We cherish the time we had with
him and thank him for everything he did in life, for we are all better people because of him.
May he rest in peace.
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