It is with fond and tender hearts and that we announce the passing of Joseph Cormac («Joe») Baxter on Thursday, October 8, 2020, at long term care home, Haro Park, Vancouver, BC, age 81. Survived by his beloved wife of over 60 years Ila Lee (nee Holdright), also a resident at Haro Park (their 61st wedding anniversary would have been Oct 30th) and by his children Christopher and Janet (m. Keith). He also leaves behind his brothers Brian (m. Doreen), and Michael and is predeceased by sisters Patricia and Cathy-Ann, and son in-law, Keith (Provost). Joe was born in 1939, second child to the late Molly (nee Cable) and Cecil Baxter, and grew up in the small (pop = ~75) town of Maitland Bridge, Nova Scotia, where he spent time fly fishing for rainbow trout in the Mersey River, honing his lumberjack skills, and listening to Wilf Carter songs wafting down the road from a neighbour’s gramophone.
Joe received a Bachelor of Physical Education in 1962 from the University of New Brunswick in Fredericton and a Masters of Education in 1983 from St Mary’s in Halifax. He initially taught Physical Education at high schools in New Germany, Parrsboro, and the Annapolis Valley in Nova Scotia, before moving west to teach at various elementary schools late 60s – 90s in Kamloops, BC, then on to False Creek in Vancouver, BC to retire turn of the millennium, where he finally hit his stride he would say, teaching kickball to 75 year old women—as part of a weekly exercise class that he ran in the senior’s apartment building where he and Lee resided.
Avid fan of Seinfeld, Fawlty Towers, and The Andy Griffith Show. Always willing to poke fun at himself, when asked to give a speech for a high school Principal’s List dinner he quipped, «you know, when I was in school, I was on a principal’s list too; nothing to do with getting good grades though… [I got no respect at all I tell ya, no respect at all; tried to donate my body to science – they rejected it!].»
Words (those that are fit to print), that could be used to describe Joe: funny, loyal, considerate, worried, humble, down-to-earth, hardy, generous, thoughtful, fair minded, smart but not a “know-it-all”, obsessive about “safety”. Country boy. Loving husband. Devoted dad. Dedicated teacher. Always striving to be better. Open to suggestions, especially ways to be “healthier”. Excellent card player. Loved sports and coaching. Nimble-footed in his youth. Log roller. Maker of lists and tightener of knobs. Wary of organized religion but felt at home in the fellowship of A.A. Liked having tasks. Liked doing things for others, being of service. Great with kids because he was playful and goofy. Kind and gentle. Pronounced parmesan, “parmesinean”. Would want his obit to make people laugh.
The family would like to thank the wonderful nurses, care aides, recreational therapists, and admin staff at Haro Park for their steadfast care (through two COVID outbreaks) during the last months of Joe’s life. He especially enjoyed the regular music therapy sessions. When recently asked if there was anything he’d like to improve his stay, he said, “I’d like a better singing voice. I wish I could carry a tune”.
Donations in Joe’s name can be made to the Vancouver Alano Club, where he supported many a newcomer on their road to recovery. Please e-transfer donations to: vanalano@shaw.ca.
As per Joe’s request, there will be no visitation or service. Just enjoy a favourite song, have a bowl of ice cream (preferably Grape-Nut), make someone laugh, and be kind to each other. For Joe.
Condolences and memories about Joe can be left below and are much appreciated.
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Joseph Cormac Joe Baxter October 8th 2020..
Décès pour la Ville: Aldergrove, Province: Colombie britanique