UMETSU, Joseph (Joe)
April 17, 1932 - November 6, 2016
With deep sorrow we announce the peaceful passing of Joseph at Hamilton General Hospital due to complications from Parkinson’s. Beloved husband of Mary for 61 years. Loving and devoted father of Cheryl, Camerson and daughter-in-law Kaoru from London, U.K. Survived by sister-in-law Judy Umetsu. Predeceased by siblings Sumi Sato (George), Bessie Ogino (Sam), Seiji Umetsu, Mitzie Oikawa (Robert), Eiko Nagata (Spud) and Douglas Umetsu. He was “Uncle Joe” to many nieces and nephews. Joe was born in Mission, B.C then ue to the war relocated to Tashme B.C in 1942. In 1946, Joe and his mother joined the rest of the family in Hamilton. Joe and Mary lived on Hamilton Mountain for 40 years. Then moved to a condo in Dundas in Aug 2000. Joe worked for City of Hamilton in payroll from 1953-1956. Then worked at Canadian Westinghouse Co. in the Accounting Department. After 33 years of service he retired in 1989. Joe was a long time member of the Hamilton Japanese United Church and served on the Board as a Building Fund Treasurer until 2012. Despite his physical challenges Joe enjoyed his life to the fullest, loved bug band music, cars, fishing, card games, CFL football, travel and casinos. We would like to thank De. S Grad and Patrick Reilly at Regional Rehabilitation Centre and Hamilton General Hospital 4 West for all their care and support. If desired, a donation to the Hamilton Japanese United Church, Canadian Japanese Cultural Centre or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.