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“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”
Matthew 5:4
Together again…
After a long life filled with love, laughter and dedication to family and friends, Joseph Francis Rys was reunited with his bride of 58 years, Diane Margaret (Nichols). Dad passed away peacefully with family by his side, on Monday, September 4, 2023, after a short stay at South Bruce Grey Health Centre, Walkerton.
Dad was born November 9, 1939, in Guelph, Ontario to Jozef and Sophie Rys. He became a leader from a young age following the sudden death of his father in 1943. He was fortunate enough to have a second father in his life, Stanley Haennel, who raised Dad and his brothers Douglas (Mary) and Bob (Linda).
Dad was a loving father of “The Original 4”, Susan (Rob) Lewis of Ottawa, Cathy (Dave) Spitzig of Walkerton, Stephanie (Ron) Sanko of Belle River and Michael (Carrie) Rys of Collingwood. He was an exceptional Papa to 9 “nearly” perfect grandchildren, Zachary (Emily), Benjamin (Emily), Luke (Jenna), Jaclyn (Austin), Marc (Jessica), Jake (Victoria), Jack (Amanda), Avery and Mason and one “perfect” great grandchild, Margaret Robinson. Dad had a special relationship with his sister-in law Gail Dixon, a friendship that started from the moment he arrived for his first date with Mom. He will also be missed by his brothers-in-laws Ronnie Nichols and John Nichols (2015). Uncle Joe will also be missed by his nieces and nephews.
Mom and Dad never missed an opportunity to have a family gathering, the bigger the better. The door was always open and there was always plenty of food and laughter.
Papa enjoyed life with his grandchildren, cheering them on at all their events. He rarely missed a game, concert, recital or first day of school. His booming voice can still be heard in the stands. We are so happy that Papa’s enthusiasm for life lives on in his grandchildren.
A natural born leader, Dad began his 37-year teaching career at the young age of 18. He touched the lives of many young people from Maryhill to Kitchener, Cambridge to Walkerton. Dad did more than just teach, his passion for education led him to increased leadership roles as a vice-principal, principal and superintendent of education. Even during his administrative roles, he continued to connect directly with students. After retirement he could be heard in the halls of local schools sharing his love of life and learning or entertaining along with the Singing Grandpas.
Dad was a loyal friend to many– starting with the group of 1939ers with who he maintained a lifelong bond. His circle of friends grew in Kitchener and those relationships remained strong even after moving his family to Walkerton in 1983. Small town life really suited dad. He quickly connected with his neighbours and made friends of all ages throughout the community.
Dad loved bringing people together and always had an idea to involve the community, no matter how crazy (who else would run around town selling 5000 Krispy Kreme donuts for an orphanage in Nicaragua?). Dad launched the Longest Day of Golf in Bruce County raising over 1 million dollars while honoring the trials and struggles of cancer champions across the area. One of his craziest ideas was when he took the town of Walkerton on a bus trip to a Toronto Blue Jays game. Dad was honoured to be
a Dirt Pig, he loved the camaraderie and community spirit of the team. Dad was recipient of many awards over the years including, News Carrier of the Year, Walkerton Citizen of the Year and most recently Maple Court Senior of the Year.
Dad lived his faith in his everyday actions. He was an active parishioner of Sacred Heart parish and a dedicated member of the Knights of Columbus, where he contributed as an executive member and organizer of many events to support the community.
A loyal supporter of sports teams he could often be heard cheering in any stands. Dad could be found watching the Toronto Blue Jays and Maple Leafs – where he still remains on the season ticket holder waiting list. A star football quarterback in his high school days he was awarded Canadian Quarterback of the year in 1957. It was during these years that he met one of his best friends for life, Peter. His love for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish was contagious and is shared by his family and many friends.
Dad had an abundance of energy and enthusiasm which he shared with all around him, but he always made his family his priority. He kept everyone connected as editor-in-chief of his Rys ‘n Shine newsletter and the distribution list grew from coast to coast. He celebrated his wife as “Saint Diane” and was quick to remind his children and grandchildren to always “hug your mother”!
So stretch those arms without delay and give someone a hug today.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, September 11, 2023, at Sacred Heart Church, Walkerton. Fr. Leszek Szczygiel officiating. Interment in Calvary Cemetery, Walkerton. A celebration will follow at the Walkerton Golf & Curling Club from 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Words of Remembrance will be shared at 2:30 p.m.
As expressions of sympathy, donations to Saugeen Hospice Inc. or Walkerton & District Hospital Foundation would be appreciated by the family. Donations may be made online at www.cameronfuneralhomes.com
Monday September 4th 2023
Death notice for the town of: Walkerton, Province: Ontario
death notice Joe Rys Monday September 4th 2023
obituaries notice Joe Rys Monday September 4th 2023
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Joe Rys Monday September 4th 2023 and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.