Tribute

With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Joe Gecse of Osoyoos, B.C. at McKinney Place, Oliver, B.C. on January 31, 2017, following a brief and courageous struggle with cancer.

   Joe is survived by his wife, Sharon, children, Pamela, Derek (Leanne), Dorel; grandchildren, Rhiannon, Kurtis, Peyton, Linden; great grandchildren, Klara-Marie, Kendrick, Katie-Jade; cousin Bob (Elaine) Berze and Jay Berze in Burnaby, B.C., and a niece and cousins in Hungary.   He is predeceased by his parents, Jozsef and Ilona (Berze) Gecse, and sister, Terus Fodor.

Born December 16, 1938, in Homokterenye, Nograd, Hungary, Joe immigrated to Canada in 1957, locating in Osoyoos to reside and work with his uncle, Jim (Minnie) Berze, on his orchard. Soon he obtained employment at the local feed and farm equipment store, Lohlein and Gyles.  Wanting to utilize his pipe fitting skills learned in Hungary, Joe began his long career in plumbing, heating. sheet metal and air conditioning, firstly working for Paul Fairweather at Osoyoos Hardware Store, then for Charlish Plumbing and Heating for many years where he earned his trade certifications.  In 1968 Joe and Sharon (Graf) were married and they were blessed with three cherished children.  In 1972 Joe started his own business, Joe’s Plumbing and Heating Ltd. which he operated until 2003 when, due to health reasons, the business was sold to the present owners.

Joe was a tireless and dedicated volunteer in the community for decades beginning with Auxiliary RCMP in early l960’s, to serving long terms on the Sun Bowl Arena Board, Osoyoos Credit Union Board, and Osoyoos Junior and Senior Soccer Clubs. He was a member of the Osoyoos Fire Department for 38 years, Elks Lodge #436 for 51 years, many of those as an officer, Royal Canadian Legion, Br. #173 for many years and Osoyoos Golf Club for several years.  He was a passionate supporter and promoter of soccer, from playing professionally in Hungary, then playing men’s soccer in Osoyoos for the Rialtos, to coaching and sponsoring Youth teams for years.  Joe was a self-taught daring skier who skied the local slopes before development, then Borderline, and finally Mount Baldy, teaching his family to enjoy the sport with him.  He also was an exuberant spectator of minor hockey, travelling multitudes of kilometers following his boys in Minor and Junior Hockey.  As a prominent businessman in Osoyoos for 31 years, he was an integral part and steadfast supporter of the growth and development of this community and a very proud citizen.

Many people will be remembering Joe – whether it is for plumbing, heating or air conditioning, the fun times in the Clubs and Organizations, or the pleasure of being personal friends.   He lived life, had fun and loved his “sausage and beer parties”.  He always had a wave and a smile for everyone.

He will be so deeply missed by his family but the memories are abundant and will always be treasured.

Mass will be held at St. Anne’s Catholic Church, Osoyoos, B.C., at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, February 8, 2017, with refreshments being served immediately following the service in the reception room of the Church.

In lieu of flowers, please direct your gifts to the charity or fund of your choice.

Condolences and tributes may be directed to the family by visiting www.nunes-pottinger.com