Obituary of Jose (Joe) Manuel Gaspar

We are deeply saddened to announce Joe’s death, at the age of 44. He passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, just as he wanted, on Saturday March 21, 2020.

Joe battled pancreatic cancer for 4 months, during which he made the most of the time he had left with his family. He managed to stay positive, despite the hand he was dealt. He’d hoped that he would live until his birthday in June. Joe loved to celebrate birthdays with a big family dinner at home – he was a guy with simple tastes – all he wished for his birthday was mom’s home cooking, a little beer to drink and a little bit of weed to smoke (actually, more than just a little)! And he especially looked forward to dad’s cash filled birthday cards.

We are heart-broken that he didn’t make it to his 45th birthday, but we will gather in his memory on his day to have a beer in celebration of his life.

Joe was a special soul. A happy-go-lucky guy. A real character! You couldn’t help but to have a soft spot for him. He had a great sense of humour – you never knew what would come out of his mouth. He sure brought much laughter into our family gatherings.

He was so happy that his daughter, Christine, stayed by his side during his health battle. She was there to the very end. As his health declined, he had her running around non-stop. She was a trooper. He treasured their last days together trying to make up for lost time.

Joe is survived by his mother, Maria and his father Jose, siblings, Maria and Humberto, daughter Christine, and his 4-legged baby, Shadow. He took his last breath in the presence of Emmanuel and Gayle, (Humberto’s partner) as she caressed his arm to comfort him.

Joe: you’re forever in our hearts. May you rest in peace.

Due to current restrictions on gatherings, the family will not have an open service. A visitation will be limited to immediate family only.

To everyone who has reached out to find out about visitation details, please sign or share your favourite memories of Joe here, in this tribute page. For those who have asked about sending flowers to show virtual support – Joe loved animals, especially his cat Shadow, who Christine inherited – so in lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Humane Society in his honour. A link to the organization is provided on his home page. 

We especially ask that more than anything, you tell the ones that matter to you how much you love them and hold them close.

Uniquely entrusted to eco Cremation & Burial Services Inc.

Life Celebrations. Done Differently.