Obituary of Rod JOYCE

Alvin Rodney "Rod" Joyce, 75, of Cranbrook B.C. passed away peacefully on May 25th with his loving wife Marie and family by his side. Rod was born in Michel Natal. He and Marie were married in 1961 and moved to Cranbook where they raised their growing family of six girls. Rod began teaching in 1959 and later became an elementary school Principal, a career he loved and enjoyed until his retirement in 1994. After retirement Rod served on the Board of School Trustees. He was a strong advocate for education and was a great teacher. He spent much of his time outside of the school in sports related actives such as umpiring baseball, refereeing hockey, working years with the Cranbrook Tritons Swim Club, and attending local hockey events. Rod was a devoted husband to Marie and father to his six girls and later his extended family and grandchildren. His wisdom, leadership, and integrity were just a few of his many strengths. Rod inspired people; not only his family members but anyone who had the pleasure of meeting him. He always made everyone he came into contact with feel special and always gave them his undivided attention. If you wanted some great advice; well, all you had to do was ask. Many of us did and were guided by his caring wisdom; he just wanted to help and see you happy and do well. Rod had a passion for baseball and hockey (Montreal Canadians) and could be seen enjoying the Kootenay Ice at the RecPlex. Rod is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Marie(Halko), along with his six loving daughters: Jackie (Stephen); Janine; Debby (Dan); Kathie (Steve); Kristi(Richard); and Danielle. Grandfather of Matthew, Nicholas, Owen, Sean, Jaina, Jarod, and Gunnar. Brother of Darryl (Bonnie) Guza of Penticton. A private family memorial service will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Condolences for the family can be offered at www.hffs.ca.