Josef Gfrerer of Lethbridge, beloved husband of Ellen Gfrerer, passed away peacefully at St. Therese Villa on November 21st, 2022, at the age of 88. Joe was born November 2, 1934, in Karawukowo, former Yugoslavia.

Joe spent most of his childhood enduring the challenges imposed by WWII and in 1955 he returned to his familial homeland of Germany where he reunited with his parents and siblings. In 1957 they immigrated to Canada and settled in Coaldale, Ab. In 1959 he and Ellen married and remained in the Coaldale area to raise their family. Joe worked a handful of different jobs throughout his life, but he always came back to farming and agriculture as he had a vast knowledge and a passion for it. He remained a steward of the land up until his retirement.

Throughout his life he always enjoyed time with family and friends. There was nothing better than good company and card game at his kitchen table. His kindness was experienced by many, and you never left his house without being offered a drink and a meal. Joe leaves behind a legacy of hard work, kindness and strength in the face of adversity.

Besides his loving wife Ellen, Josef is survived by his 6 Children, Robert (Tabatha) Gfrerer, Cathy (Gerald) Pahara, Joe Gfrerer, Steve Gfrerer, David (Toni) Gfrerer, and Kellie (Brock) Ott, as well as his brother Stefan Gfrerer. He is also survived by his 10 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren as well as numerous nieces and nephews and their families. His smile was always brightest when he was with his grandchildren.

Dad will be greatly missed.

We will be holding a celebration of life in Spring 2023, date later to be announced.