On October 14, 2020 following a courageous 8-month hospitalization, Joe passed away peacefully at age 67. His wife of 42 years, Barbara and their only son Adam were by his side throughout the night. Joe was so proud of his family and always put them first. He will be sadly missed by his daughter-in-law Amy Barnett-Zaprzala, and grandchildren Ethan John and Hayley Rose, as well as Brother-in-law Peter Edick, and all his cousins in the Edick family.

Affectionately known as “Joe Zap”, he was a warm and lovable character, with a larger than life personality and a boundless curiosity for knowledge, especially science and history. Joe was a true romantic, who never failed to shower his wife Barbara with affection. He cherished the many lifelong women friends in his life who he loved to call ‘his decorations’. He was so proud of his son Adam and beamed with pride at his many accomplishments. A warm and giving father figure to an extended family of ‘his boys’, he never missed a chance to give them a big bear hug and kiss, even after they’d become fine young men with families of their own.

A proud Canadian, Joe’s love of nature stemmed from a happy childhood ‘up north’ in a small town just outside of Timmins, Ontario with his parents the late John and Hildegard and late sister Eve Zaprzala. His cottage on Muskoka’s Go Home Lake was his favourite little bit of heaven. A Journeyman Millwright and Aircraft Technician, he loved everything mechanical, from his vintage cars to his extensive HO model railroad set. An enthusiastic story-teller, Joe would spin tales of working in the high Arctic, where its magnificent beauty made an indelible impression he shared throughout his life.

Joe was a unique individual who was interested in everything and everyone, and was loved by all who knew him. He left us too soon. The family extends its deepest gratitude to the health care professionals at Trillium Hospital for their care and kindness these past months.

A private cremation will be followed by a celebration of life in the months ahead, at a time when friends and family are able to gather together safely.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Joe to Trillium Health Partners