MR. JOSEPH ""JOE"" MRAK of Picture Butte, beloved husband of Mrs. Anne Mrak, passed away on Monday, June 30, 2008 at the age of 93 years.

Joe is survived by his wife Anne of 61 years, children Maria (Brian), John (Jean), Helen and Tony (Kim); grandchildren Scott, Toni Ann, Brad (Nancy), Joey (Laura), Ryan (Jess), D.J., Joel, Trevor (Kerrie) and Amber (Blake); great-grandchildren Blake, Lucy, Jager, Charlie and Kasen; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and their families.

Joe was born, raised and educated in Skofja Loka Slovenia. In 1945 he went to Austria where he married Anna Novak on October 14, 1946 and together immigrated to Canada in 1948 settling in Irons Springs. They moved to Picture Butte in 1950 where he has resided until his passing. Joe operated a shoe repair business and after a few years started an upholstery business as well and retired in 1985. He was an active member of the Picture Butte Fish and Game Association and was an active participant of their Archery Club.

Vigil Rites (Prayers) will be held at 7:00pm on Friday, July 4, 2008 at MARTIN BROS. RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 - 4 Street South, Lethbridge.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00am on Saturday, July 5, 2008 at ST. CATHERINE'S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH, 762 Crescent Ave North, Picture Butte, with Father James Hagel, celebrant. Interment to follow in the Mountain View Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Fondation, #207, 542 - 7 Street South, Lethbridge, AB T1J 2H1.