I did ask permission to publish these, but if you would like yours removed or if I missed your note, I'll be happy to make the changes. Some notes have been redacted, in the hopes of not offending anybody.
" ... He wasn't a saint ... he was just a nerd, a birdwatcher, a geologist, a (hobby) astronomer, an environmentalist, a reader and a retailer ... and somewhere in there, people found inspiration from him and he wants you to know how honoured he is by that."
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Jill and Joe, where do I begin.
I've wanted to write something profound and inspiring for months now. Alas, I'm just going to list all the things about you two that have inspired me. In no particular order...
You are two of the best humans I've ever met. Honest, kind, grounded, just great people. When we first crossed paths at the Museum, from our fist conversation Joe, I knew that the public and staff would benefit immensely from your contributions. I think of the hordes of kids you survived each spring break (x2 for QC and ON), of the earth sciences students you hired that knew their stuff and could add value to every transaction with the public... who you paid above-minimum wage to, who you treated with respect... like family. You added value (sorry for the phrasing) to every exhibit, special event, lecture, book launch, and programming the Museum had. I am so glad that you weathered the transition from the old bureaucracy to your own streamlined system... and then the RENOVATION. You have the patience of Job.
I fondly recall chatting with Jill at Carlingwood and then her sneaking me a special discount when I bought the neatest things at your other store. About sitting around in your backyard under your Aussie canopies, safe from the sun, about getting the most delicious gelato on Preston Street. You were even gracious about drinking Terry's "homemade" wine. Terry doesn't take to many people, but he was delighted any time we spent with you.
And Jill, your strength and stamina... it isn't so much that you have supported and survived, but you have the depth of character to stand back and laugh... yes through tears, but it beats what so many others resort to. I believe you are blessed with loving family and friends because that's what you two have nurtured.
It appears to me that you are just so smart to grab the moments that you have. Bravo on the new car! Funnily enough, Terry did the same thing... getting me a new (used) car so that I'd be set. Thinking of loved ones until the very end. I hate to use the word 'end' but there is no other. Whether it is the end of a phase, or whatever.... depends on your view of the universe. Your family and friends will carry both of you in our hearts, so your essence will never disappear. Life will change, but the ripples continue forever.
You are two of the best humans I've ever met. Honest, kind, grounded, just great people. When we first crossed paths at the Museum, from our fist conversation Joe, I knew that the public and staff would benefit immensely from your contributions. I think of the hordes of kids you survived each spring break (x2 for QC and ON), of the earth sciences students you hired that knew their stuff and could add value to every transaction with the public... who you paid above-minimum wage to, who you treated with respect... like family. You added value (sorry for the phrasing) to every exhibit, special event, lecture, book launch, and programming the Museum had. I am so glad that you weathered the transition from the old bureaucracy to your own streamlined system... and then the RENOVATION. You have the patience of Job.
I fondly recall chatting with Jill at Carlingwood and then her sneaking me a special discount when I bought the neatest things at your other store. About sitting around in your backyard under your Aussie canopies, safe from the sun, about getting the most delicious gelato on Preston Street. You were even gracious about drinking Terry's "homemade" wine. Terry doesn't take to many people, but he was delighted any time we spent with you.
And Jill, your strength and stamina... it isn't so much that you have supported and survived, but you have the depth of character to stand back and laugh... yes through tears, but it beats what so many others resort to. I believe you are blessed with loving family and friends because that's what you two have nurtured.
It appears to me that you are just so smart to grab the moments that you have. Bravo on the new car! Funnily enough, Terry did the same thing... getting me a new (used) car so that I'd be set. Thinking of loved ones until the very end. I hate to use the word 'end' but there is no other. Whether it is the end of a phase, or whatever.... depends on your view of the universe. Your family and friends will carry both of you in our hearts, so your essence will never disappear. Life will change, but the ripples continue forever.
Biggest hugs and love,
Risë
Former senior exec at Museum of Nature - part of team that gave Joseph the contract to run the Museum store.
(added June 10th)
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I am so sad to read this..
I think so much about him, you, cassia and all family ❤️
For sure I will always remember him and his smile!!❤️
Julie - Marseille, France (exchange student/forever friend)
My parents kiss you too
My parents kiss you too
💔💔
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Hi Aunty Jill.
Dad told me last night about Joseph's passing. I am so sorry to hear this news and hope you are all doing as well as you can in this situation. You are all in my thoughts and I hope he is resting peacefully now. He has definitely earned it.
I've had an emotional morning catching up on your beautifully written blog. I am not sure how to say it, but I am thankful that you got to spend his final moments by his side.I'm sorry i haven't been in contact, but I'm not great in these situations and didn't want to get emotional in front of any of you as I'm sure this was already hard enough for you all and that you were trying to keep things as positive as possible, but i have been thinking of you a lot.
...
Sending lots of love to you. Hope to see you soon xx
Lisa Ingham, Adelaide SA
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My heart is hurting but only a fraction of what you must be feeling. We lost a precious and beautiful man last night, the only comfort is he lives on still in your children and in our memories. I wish I could give you a huge hug right now... there will be time for that when this crazy world becomes more normal. Until then I will crack a champagne and cheers to Joseph....
Love and hugs to you all xxxxxx.
Karen Gillespie , Adelaide. SA
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Mum has just told me what has happened. My sincerest condolences Aunty Jill, he is now at peace. I am so so sorry to hear. Luv Z
xoZane Reeves, Adelaide SA
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Dearest Dill , Dan and I will be devastated to hear of Joseph’s passing. He was such a prince of a man and we always enjoyed getting together with you both. It was such a fun time when you both came over for a barbeque and we sat out on the deck and I’m so glad I have that lovely photograph. We will be thinking of you and the family during this time and all our love to you all
Take care dear friend and our thoughts and prayers are with you💐
Wendy & Dan,
Wendy Stringfield, Dan Montague, Ottawa. ON
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My thoughts are with you my dear friend. Grieving the lost of a good man. Love you
Jacques Gagnon, ottawa. ON
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How devastating for all of you, just awful. How cruel this disease is to take loved ones away in such a ravaging fashion. Your blog details have allowed us to really get a sense of what all of these processes are and the candour of your writing is most relatable. It doesn’t however show the emotional turmoil you’ve surely been going through and I’d give anything to change the situation you are both in. How you compliment each other as a couple is always wonderful to be around and I am blessed to have crossed paths with you at all. On a personal level ... with the death of my dad at 18, Joseph was a shining example of respect and dignity and provided me with a male role model which gave me hope for a better life. His knowledge of the natural world and sciences was endlessly interesting. Between that and the store I think really honed my love of nature photography and the simple pleasures of being outdoors. We thoroughly enjoyed our visits with him last summer, he’s great company!
...
I love you guys ❤️
Candace, ONW Ottawa
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Sending you so so so much love Jill, many lovely memories with you and Joseph. He was the most wonderful man. Lots of love xxxx
Amber Gillespie, Adelaide. SA
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Jill,
I don’t know what to say. My heart goes out to you and the family. Joe will be missed by so many but especially his wonderful, caring and loving family. Those grandkids of yours were so lucky to have him in their lives. What a great man who will be remembered forever. I remember always swinging by the store when I was shopping at Carlingwood mall just to say hi and see your smiling faces. I was blessed to have you both in my life growing up with Mischa as a side kick for many years.
Sending lots of love and hugs your way! ❤️
Kim Mackinnon (Chinkiwsky) ON
Kim Mackinnon (Chinkiwsky) ON
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Jill and Cassia - I’m so sorry to learn about Joseph. What a decent, wonderful human. I know you have so many meaningful memories and I hope you can recall these often as some comfort. Please accept my deepest condolences at this difficult time, and also pls pass on, as you would, to Mischa, with whom I seem not to be socially connected.
Yours, Larry Tarof. Ottawa ON
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Jill, I'm very sad for your loss, Joe was a great bloke, birder and conservationist and was loved by all at BirdsSA and will be missed.
We offer our condolences and all the thoughts in this difficult time.
We will be in touch and if you need anything Jill please contact me.
Kind regards
John Gitsham
President BirdsSA
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Jill, just read your blog post with your sad news. Sending Rob and my condolences to you and the family at this sad time. What a kind, generous man Joseph was and I know you’ll have so many memories as a family to treasure. With love, Karen xx
Karen & Rob Rogers Scotland
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Joe, you hold a great big place in my heart. I truly believe I was at the right place at the right time the day I brought in my résumé at onw and you told me you were looking for someone at the museum. You were, without question, the best boss EVER! You (and Jill) are the most generous and giving people I know and I'm so grateful to have spent... how many years? ...must be close to 10(I think) working for you. You've included me in so much of the business, especially all the travels... Toronto, Montréal, and New York. You've always treated me like family and for all that I would like to say thank you. And Newfoundland, I was able to take my first real trip because you had offered to pay (airmiles) for my plane ticket. Like, WOW! I don't anybody who would do something like that for an employee. Thank you, thank you a hundred times!!
Those years working for you were some of the best years, I will never forget them or you. Especially the (many) times you would leave an opened exacto knife amongst the stuffies or the dinosaurs for the pesky little children to find haha! You were the best and you will always be in my heart...always. Enjoy every moment with your family. Sending you lots of love,
Danielle xoxo
Allllllright, let's get this place cleaned up! 😁
Danielle Hardy. ONW & NB. Ottawa ON
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Jill, I am so at a loss for words. Thinking of you and the family. Joe was pivotal to my upbringing and I really regret not being able to find the words sooner. Sending you all love. Wish I could fly down to be there for all of you. Take it slow, easy and feel everything you need to feel. You are surrounded by family and love from all corners of the globe and Joe was too. ❤
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Oh Jill, I just want to reach out through time and space and give you a hug. One thing I wanted to share was ever since you and Joe came here to our home by the woods, I watch and listen to the birds more closely and am beginning to identify their individual behaviours and songs. People touch us in different ways and they may never even know it. I wish you and Joe peace as you continue on this most difficult of journeys. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs.
Özlem Ashton Ottawa. ON
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Dear Joe
This must be a very difficult time for you and your family and friends. It’s important to me that you know how much I have valued our friendship and the times we’ve spent together, despite the fact that we’ve lived far from each other for many years.
I want to thank you for the times we spent birding together, especially in the mid-1970s. Those were very special to me and I still have vivid memories of several outings including on the O.F.N.C. Spring Roundup in May 1973 with Monty Brigham covering the North-east sector. I’ll never forget when the Northern Saw-whet Owl flew in as Monty imitated it. Another memorable trip was to Presqu’ile Provincial Park in April 1974 with all the great waterfowl viewing that weekend, including seeing a male Ruddy Duck!
I also want to thank you for hiring me to work at Nature Canada Bookshop in 1974 and providing my first ever pay cheque! Tom Hince and I boxed and shipped hundreds of copies of The Mammals of Canada, which had just come out. It was a fun time! Later, after you and Jill opened Our Natural World at the Carlingwood Shopping Center, I sent lots of customers your way and spent a lot of time there myself purchasing birding equipment and Christmas presents.
I wish Tom and I could have visited you when we were in Australia last fall but I guess it wasn’t in the cards.
Thank you again for being an important part of my life.
Until we meet again my friend,
Bruce DiLabio. Carp ON
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Jill you listed all the wonderful characteristics skills and talents of our dear Joe. Many of them I knew ....but some not. The 1 that I focused on was Joe the retailer! And this is how our friendship began. Jill he always spoke about you but it was years before I met u....and so glad that we finally did. So I started thinking back to the days of visiting Joe at Museum of Nature on my 2 x trips to Ottawa. We always checked the warehouse for back up stock, followed by a store visit. Always meticulous in managing his inventory and only Joe could write up the order as he had his system down pat. I was going through some old Stone Age catalogues and came across a design that Joe took a liking to...will add it at the end. Do you remember the laughing Beaver ...Castor Canadensis? Always enjoyed your visits at the Gift Show. You always had some chirp or other....You were full of shit....but u always got away with it. Saying that you were extremely loyal and supportive of the Stone Age brand and did throw in compliments from time to time.....and coming from you was a huge compliment. Both of you were exemplary retailers....A rare breed today. Both your stores are greatly missed in today's retail landscape.
Bev (& Jon) Sone Age, Toronto ON
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Jill & Joe, it’s not hard to have you both on my mind these days, especially as when I look around the house there are little gifts from the two of you everywhere I turn. From Australian dish towels, to TY beanie babies, to koala socks, & waltzing Matilda being read at story time, we are reminded of both of you as we go about our days. But it’s not only in the the physical items I’m reminded of you both. As I play with Lily & Katie and think about the memories they’ll remember from their childhood it makes me reminisce of fond memories I have from childhood and the time our families spent together. Be it going to Nortel Christmas parties, playing mean teacher in your basement, putting on dollies first..., Fondue & Christmas light watching, or of course decorating the beautiful store, I’m filled with so much gratitude for the ways our families lives were intertwined. Joe, I’m so thankful I was on the receiving end of your generous heart, your abundance of knowledge of our beautiful planet & seeing your hard work ethic in successfully running the stores that were loved by so many. Not to mention the way you so deeply cared for those who worked alongside you. I’m sad to think of the pain you have been experiencing over these past few months. You are deeply missed here in Canada and we love you very much.
Jessica Feeney, Ottawa ON
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Hi Jill, I just want to send all my love to you and Joe. You both mean the world to me and to so many people. You know whenever I'm travelling and I see a bird that I can't identify, I always think of Joe. I know that not only would he know the bird, he could probably tell me all about it. I have always loved our conversations. I think about how lucky I am to have made such good friends in high school with such fantastic parents. My thoughts are with you and Joe, Cassia, Pablo, Mischa, Simone and all the kids and all your family. Sending you lots and lots and lots of love!
Helena Zemanek, Ottawa ON
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Helena Zemanek, Ottawa ON
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Oh that breaks my heart ...
Tell him I miss him and think of him often
And also thank him for hiring me
Sending strength
But you already have so much xoxo
Althia Raj, Ottawa ON (Nature Boutique )
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My dear Jill and Joseph, I have started this message many times and been unable to finish. Truth is, there are no words of comfort. You are walking the most difficult path right now. My heart is breaking for you and your family. I just cannot imagine the anguish. Joseph, I am so glad that I got to see you last summer. And I am very sorry for your suffering. So unfair. I hope you can feel all the love and support directed at you from Canada. I will think of you when I see a bird at my feeder that I cannot name. Warm hugs to you both, with love, Connie
Connie Ellis, Ottawa ON
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Hi Aunty Jill, Mischa and Cassia,
Want to send my sincere condolences for the passing of Uncle Joe. I take some comfort in knowing he is no longer in great pain and was surrounded by your love and support this whole time. I really valued my chats with Uncle Joe, I felt our values were very aligned. I loved hearing his wisdom, knowledge and understandings, particularly of the natural world. He may have felt he had 20 more years left, but he had already lived and achieved much more than most do in that time. I hope to see you all soon, Bryce
Bryce Ingham, Adelaide SA
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VALE JOE DAFOE
It was a huge shock to all of the “Shorebird Monitoring Programme” workers to hear in January 2020 that Joe Dafoe was no longer able to participate in survey work due to the sudden diagnosis of cancer. Joe had still been walking many kms per day and undertaking Shorebird Survey work in December.
Joe was very generous with his time and expertise. He willingly shared his high-level identification skills with folk new to the testing art of identifying Migratory Waders, and always with a smile.
The Shorebird Monitoring Programme, formerly known as the “2020 Shorebird Survey” will be the poorer with the loss of Joe’s support.
He will be missed.
Kate Buckley
Adelaide SA
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I’m so sorry for you all, Jill. I just got the news from Gala yesterday. Joe was one of the most amazing people I’ve ever known. I will be forever grateful for all the memories I have of working with him at the boutique. I can still see him coming through the door, hands on his hips, and whether the store was messy or spotless he’d always say: “All right let’s get this place cleaned up!” It always cracked me up! And I can never forget how he helped me start my illustration career out of the goodness of his heart. What an amazing human being. I’m so glad I got to see you both last summer and catch up for a bit... I’m keeping you in my heart ❤️
Jo Rioux, Nature Boutique, Ottawa. ON
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- I will always remember the deep warmth Joseph had us whenever we walked into the store OR ran into him at a team event. These things happen for a reason unbelievably and surely his infectious happiness is rubbing off on those he's with wherever that may be...
- Alexia and I send our heartfelt and deepest condolences to everyone especially the children, grandchildren, and we project limitless hugs and love to you in particular Jill.
—Logendra and Alexia Naidoo, Ottawa ON
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So grateful that I was able to come and visit with all of you this past September. This year has shown us, in so many ways, how our worlds can change in an instant. I really cherish the time we were able to spend together.
Joe was such an important part of my life when I was growing up. I have a very fond memory of one particular canoe trip. Cassia and I must have been about 14? It was in Algonquin park, I remember it was a 55KM loop. I remember the distance because I had never done anything like that before. I'm pretty sure it poured rain for most of the trip but I learned so much from Joe that it didn't matter. The experience instilled in me a sense of adventure and a love of camping that's lasted a lifetime. It's funny how you remember certain little things - like how I learned from him to always collect water from the middle of the lake, that you can use your bacon grease for pancakes on the fire, and how to properly steer a canoe. He had a wonderful thirst for adventure and life. He will be missed dearly. Sending lots of love to you all.
Emily Schultz. Sydney Australia
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Jill you may not remember me but I am the one who asks your amazing husband to join us on birding adventures out to weird little islands such as “Bird Island” to look for, you guessed it, BIRDS! You and I met a few years ago when you guys brought Billie and Jasper to a Fun-in-the-sun day at Middle Beach (another weird little place) and instead of fun in the sun it rained all day, remember that?!
Ha ha My memories of that day are of your gorgeous grandkids and sitting in the back of your van with towels – you even had an extra one for me!
Oh, that reminds me of the time I met up with Joe at this creepy old mansion in the middle of the Coorong (gosh, yet another weird place! It seems to be a thing Joe). We were there do to a Shorebird survey starting the next morning. The house was covered in mouse poo and I was very worried about sleeping in it. Joe was looking forward to sleeping in the Van and took pity on me and gave me an extra sheet to go over the mouse poo bed I was meant to sleep on. That sheet was a lifesaver, it meant I got 1 hour of sleep that night versus zero! I took the sheet home and gave it a good wash before returning it to you don’t worry J
I can think of a few more stories like this where you’ve had my back Joe… literally, like when you would help to carry the heavy telescope around Bird Island. And I know you offered to do this many times for Mary-Ann when you guys did the Pt Prime counts. By the way, I’ve done the Port Prime Shorebird counts twice this summer and DAMN I forgot how tricky and exhausting that site can be! You guys deserve medals for taking on that site. I’ll continue to head out there with Mary-Ann and never leave her on her own. Don’t worry about that. I will try to offer her as much support as you have but we will both struggle carrying those ridiculously heavy ‘scopes and we’ll send you photos when we end up to our knees in stinky mud!
I also wanted to say thank you Joe for the many times you have challenged me and made me think twice about what we were doing and why? In fact, it’s a bit of a joke between Emma and I “Will Joe be there? Hmmm, better get our sh!$ together because he will ask questions and we better have answers!” Seriously, thank you for making me better at my job (“Silver Gulls Aleisa, not Sea Gulls!”) and also reminding me of how good my job is, and I’m lucky to have it to be able to meet and work with people like you.
You’ve also inspired me to do more travelling and even get back to Canada for more than a quick visit with my family in Ottawa but to see more of my own country and do some of the trails out west as you have. That is on my bucket list for sure. I’ll take my son Jacob and turn him in to a ‘Bird Nerd’ without even trying! J Actually, I was impressed the other day when I heard him say to my Mother-in-law, “That’s not a Magpie, that’s a Magpie-Lark”. Ahh… so satisfying, and he’s only 3.
We’ve missed you a lot this summer Joe. I really needed someone to camp on Bird Island and shoot the pesky Silver Gulls that ate all the Fairy Tern eggs. I knew you would have been the man for the job!
Please know how much of a positive impact you have made on our lives and in our birding community and it won’t be wasted because I am determined to continue to ‘think like Joe’ and look for ways to improve and do things different. PS. Those high-tide monitoring trips on Bird Island worked a treat this year, great idea!!
Aleisa, BirdLife Aus
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Oh my heart is so heavy and aching! However, the memories of our times with you in Ottawa are so rich and happy...Joe's goofy sense of humour and huge infectious smile (as Jill rolls her eyes at his goofiness) will always be in my memories! Would love to see you if at all possible when you are back! Thinking of you all, sending our love!
Hugs Jacqui Mathewson-West, Mildmay ON
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Jill I am so sad to hear that Joe lost his battle. I know that the fight was the best he could do. I am so blessed he stopped in here on his trip last year. We did understand each other and I knew I had a real buddy. Bless you for being strong for him. I was in hospital for a a week and did not know he had gone until I got home. I have had a lot of time to reflect on when our paths crossed. I am so happy that you two were in my life. Stay safe Jill drop a line once in a while. Much love Carla
Carla Irwin, Edmonton AB (ex IKEA Ottawa)
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Carla Irwin, Edmonton AB (ex IKEA Ottawa)
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Jill - I was so sorry to read of Joe’s passing. You and he both had a profound impact on my life. You welcomed all your staff into your family. Joe was always so supportive, a wealth of knowledge and a smiling face and I know he is missed by many. You and your family are in my thoughts.
Rebecca Skrebutanus. ONW, Ottawa ON
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Friend beyond words could ever say and the reason Brad J. Elliott loved Algonquin Park so much. Thankful for last summer and the many days the four of us were together. Our family lost a part of us and we will always be grateful for having Joe. There are just so many memories to name. Ashley House and Jessica Feeney have never known a life without Joe in it, and they are blessed because of it.
Brenda and Brad Elliott, Ottawa. ON
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So saddened by this news. Glad he was surrounded by love of family and friends. Joseph was the first environmentalist I knew, always concerned about his footprint on the world. In his gentle way he taught us so much. I remember him dressed up as Darwin at our dinner party and his white hat! So happy we spent the day together last summer! Thinking of you Jill and Cassia and Mischa and family. How wonderful to have the memories that you have. Love to you. Xoxo
Colleen O’Connell and Dave Cybulski, Maitland ON
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Jill our sincere condolences to you, Mischa, Cassia and their families. Cyril and I can not imagine the loss that you are feeling. We treasure memories of your visits to Nova Scotia, starlit nights singing around the fire pit.
Joseph was a man who pursued his passion for nature to the fullest. His range of knowledge was truly amazing.
Jill thank you for allowing us to share Joseph’s final journey through your blog. Your strength of character has been a brilliant light throughout Joseph’s journey. He would be so proud of you.
Sending heart felt hugs love, Jan and Cyril.
Jan & Cyril Siteman Halifax N.S.
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I had the best 7 years working for you and Joe, you were always my second family. I can't believe he is gone and I'm so sorry for your loss.
Liane McConnell ONW, Ottawa ON
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Oh Jill, I'm so very sad to hear this news, I'll always remember Joseph as the beautiful young man I knew and came to love at Standard Book in the 80s 😊😊
My love and condolences to you all. So very sad all those who loved and admired him are unable to pay our respects, I'm sure we'll all be with him in spirit 😞☘☘♥️♥️
Philiomena (Standard Book) Adelaide SA
Philiomena (Standard Book) Adelaide SA
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You are in our thoughts Joe, and Bill and I wish you peaceful days in the sun. Jill, you are outstanding. 👏 Joe, the Red Wings have just returned to the garden, and they spent the best part of half an hour singing to me from the top of the big ash tree, just outside my studio window. A Raven drops by nearly every morning for a bit of seed and some apple that we leave out now for any returning birds who will enjoy it, and bit by bit, the bird chorus is growing in the pine trees around us. Bill is doing the taxes - mine are always a bit different, being an artist, and this year we have to add in the author aspect, and I'm painting and writing, taking time out of course, to polish Frost's 'Fangs'. He accidentally closed his mouth on my finger the other day while I was brushing his teeth, and I have to admit, his teeth are sharp! Love to you both. ❤️
Heather and Bill Anderson Constance Bay, ON
==
Dear Jill,
I have thought about little else all day. Joseph is no longer in pain, no longer suffering and is now in a better place. I am sure you are feeling relief mixed with profound loss. My heart hurts with your heart. My soul feels relief that this painful journey has come to a peaceful end. What a blessing for Joseph to have you, Mischa and Cassie with him as he left. Could any of us wish for more? I feel an inner peace just closing my eyes and seeing you all together.
...
As I read about all that you two did - assessing the treatment options, hoping for a positive clinical trial, getting into the trial, dealing with such a difficult period on the trial, and then deciding to "enjoy" a good month together - it has been epic.
You two have shared a wonderful life and have wonderful children and grandchildren. I loved the pictures that the kiddies made for Joseph and the joy he got from the kids and their artwork. The brunch at the hospital will remain my "favourite" day - i loved the pictures of that event.
Your description of Joseph as "a nerd, a birdwatcher, a geologist, a hobby astronomer, an environmentalist, a reader and a retailer" was my favourite and captured so much.
...
love - Mary and Don
Mary and Don Bush - Ottawa ON
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JOSEPH
A person full of integrity
You’ve always been a man of sincerity
You have been to your family a pillar of strength
To provide for them giving them love, you’ve gone to great lengths.
You’ve enriched the lives of everyone around you
With your passion for travel and especially the planet too.
The Antarctic was in your sight, but this final journey was not in the plans
We have been privileged to join you on your journey through life
Enriched to have known you,
So now the pain has gone
We know you have reached your promised land
Jen and Michael Gates Adelaide SA
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Firstly, I feel so lucky and humbled that Uncle Joe visited us in Winnipeg this Summer. He left an amazing impression. He lived life to the fullest. He had a wise perspective on life and was just great to be around. So funny. So wickedly witty. We have a lot of shared philosophies and perspectives. He is my super cool uncle and I was so proud to show him off to my husband and kids. Even the very thoughtful Peter, couldn’t help but mention how admirably Uncle Joe lived and how incredibly delighted he was with his family…especially the grandkids. One thing I won’t soon forget…sometimes it’s the small stuff, is when he was on a call with you, he shared to you that we had a nice life here in Winnipeg, and to have Uncle Joe say that meant so much to me. I think it hit home because I’ve often thought he did too. He has his priorities in the right place and your marriage and relationship always seemed so joyful and fun, even when you pick on each other. Relationships goals for sure! I’m sure you’ve modelled this healthy behaviour for your children too. Even in your blog, I see the true friendship and love you have for each other. And you! You’ve been so brave and fearless and funny through it all. You are amazingly strong. Your personality is true and real and I hope you get a moment to breathe. You must be scared and yet I know you will be okay.
So although Uncle Joe maybe hasn’t had a long life, I think he’s had a gorgeous life. And a huge part of that is you.
I cherish the mug he brought me and drink form it every morning. But of course more than that…I cherish my uncle and his incredible family, who put a smile on my face every time I see them, in person from afar. I think of you all very often and all of this has gutted me from afar. I still can’t believe this is happening.
Kerry Feeney, Winnepeg AB. Canada
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Dear Joe, You are like a second father to me, and I'm sure so many others feel the same way. You were always there for me as I grew up, and I could always count on you to take care of me when I really needed it. I remember everything you did for me, always supporting me and encouraging me along the road. I even remember when you tried to get me to put on a seatbelt at the Toyota dealership in Ottawa when we came back from Indonesia. You were helping my mom buy a car. Or when you visited me at Wendy's, and then you gave me a great job. I learned so much from you in so many realms of life: how to be generous and kind, and how to truly appreciate the natural world. I know your spirit will always live on in your very beautiful family and in your friends who love you so much. I think of you when I hear birds, when I go camping, when I see stars, and when I teach students about rocks and minerals. Thank-you Joseph, you are the best uncle.
Love,
Sofia Samper, Toronto Canada
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Hi Jill,
We are so sad to hear of Joe’s passing last Friday. He was a kind, gentle man with a great passion for the environment. We will remember his friendly disposition, sociable nature and his excellent company over a meal or two.
One Saturday afternoon last October I was lucky enough to accompany Sue Nettlefold and Joe on the Malleefowl monitoring program here at Gluepot where one of the mounds we checked was an active mound. Of course all three of us were very excited and it proved to be the only active mound found on Gluepot that weekend. Earlier that month Joe had been here at Gluepot again Atlassing and was happy to have our overseas French and Swiss assistant rangers help him. He enjoyed their company, speaking French and teaching them about our Australian birds. Joe also offered to take them birding around Adelaide after they left Gluepot.
We will miss Joe very much here at Gluepot.
Kind regards,
Ian and Deirdre Kerr
Volunteer Rangers
Gluepot Reserve. SA
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Dear Jill
Personally, and on behalf of the Friends of Parks SA, I would like to offer condolences on Joe's passing on Friday.
I have know Joe for quite some time as I too am a keen 'birder' (I started when I was 12 years old). Joe and I are members of a number of conservation/environmental organisations, so we often met at meetings or out in the field.
My last meeting with Joe was early in December at the AGM of the Friends of Adelaide International Bird Sanctuary. Six weeks previously, I had an operation to replace my left knee and it was a battle to convince my surgeon that I was able to drive - the trip to the St Kilda Community Hall for the AGM was the first time I had driven since early January.
As it turned out, the temperature on the day was 42c and I expected only a handful of people to turn up. I was totally amazed when the room filled and it was standing room only!! I paid my subs to the FAIBS that day, and as Treasurer, Joe gave me a receipt, and we had a great talk about 'old times'.
Joe really loved the environment and I came to realise that any organisation that Joe was involved with, was certain to uphold its environmental objectives and be composed of a dedicated group of volunteers.
Joe loved coming up to Gluepot Reserve and working with our Friends Group there - a totally different environment from his regular visits to the beaches to work on shore birds. His quiet manner and captivating smile along with his wealth of birding knowledge, will be sorely missed by his great host of friends.
Joe was 'one in a million' and his expertise will be missed by myself and the many volunteers who intend to make the AIBS one of the worlds greatest migratory shorebird sanctuaries.
Again, our very best wishes and condolences.
Duncan
Duncan MacKenzie
Chairman AIBS, Gluepot Reserve and President of Friends of Parks SA
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Thank you, Jill, for posting this incredible tribute to Joe's life. His life and his passing was perfect, and we should all be so lucky to have such a beautiful family. May he soar with the sea eagles and light upon a high cloud to watch us having fun down here, watching those precious birds. He has just gone away on migration, to return as some bird. We will watch for him.
Thanks, Joan Gibbs from FAIBS. Adelaide SA
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Jill, I am so sorry to hear about Joe. You have both had played such a huge and vibrant role in so many peoples' lives - mine included. I always felt like I was part of the Dafoe family despite only working for you for a few years. I have so many wonderful memories from those days, many of which involve Joe laughing and making jokes. I will never forget his kindness. Despite my stubbornness to jump at every chance to pick up another shift, he would always tell me to take a day off to prioritize my studies when needed. Thanks to those kind gestures, I am now a few months away from completing my PhD. I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you and your family
Sara Murphy ONW
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Following are notes from members of FAIBS (Friends of the International Bird Sanctuary South Australia)
Kirsty Darlaston, FAIBS
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Thinking of Joe’s family and friends. He was a lovely quirky and generous man.
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Ian Forsyth, FAIBS
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I have been following the blog that Jill has been posting with increasing sorrow and am now deeply, deeply, saddened by his passing.
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Jennifer Hiscock, FAIBS
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This is such sad news and he is a real loss.
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Joan Gibbs, FAIBS
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Joe was a lovely human and an amazing bird-man. Please give my condolences to Jill and family. So sorry for the loss for us all. We will miss him.
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Chris Starrs, FAIBS
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I am stunned. What a great loss. My sincere condolences to Joe's family and friends.
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Jean Turner, Birdlife Australia and Dave Potter, FAIBS
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Joe was a lovely, friendly intelligent man, a passionate shorebird watcher and such a dedicated volunteer - not only with shorebirds and beach-nesting birds, but also the national Malleefowl program and goodness knows what else. We certainly missed catch-ups with him at the Port Adelaide office when he went travelling back in Canada and then moved to North Adelaide on return. Really glad that I had the opportunity to meet Joe and work with him during the Samphire Coast Icon Project.
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Aleisa Lamanna, Birdlife Australia, FAIBS
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Joe was amazing in so many ways, but I guess we know him best for his incredible birding skills! As well as Fairy Tern monitoring trips to Bird Island Joe was also involved with other bird monitoring programs, such as the Mallee Fowl monitoring program (he was walking 20+ kms for this program!), Beach-nesting Birds and Migratory Shorebirds. He will be greatly missed. In particular I am going to miss his cheeky sense of humour and his incredibly curious mind. “What’s next Aleisa?” I can hear it so clearly still.
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Helen Macilwain and Michael Weir, FAIBS
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It’s very sad to hear that Joe has passed away. Michael and I always enjoyed being out in the field with Joe as he was a very generous person with a great sense of humour. We miss his antics and his stories and share our condolences with his family and friends.
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Emma Stephens, Birdlife Australia
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I just keep on thinking about all of the times he would greet us with his jokes and wisecracks, all his knowledge and interesting career. Obviously he was the best family man too – so sad for his family.
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Chris Purnell, Birdlife Australia
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Joe was a delightful fella I’m very sorry to hear he passed on. I remember when I first met him up at Thompsons, he was very generous with his knowledge of waders (from Australia and beyond) assisting others with ID in a relaxed and accessible fashion. He had some great bird yarns but was humble in delivering them, never “gripping”. As you say he was very enthusiastic about conservation and was thrilled by the challenge of counting Port Prime. He will be sorely missed. Please pass my condolences onto Jill.
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Kasun Ekanayake, Birdlife Australia
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He was such a wonderful human being and his passion for birding was contagious. He always had time for you and I agree with you about his incredibly curious mind. He was such a good committed volunteer as well and we will miss him dearly.
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Keith Jones, FAIBS
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It was with great sadness of the news of Joe's passing. As you say, his passing has left a great gap in our knowledge of birding, both here in SA and further afield. My thoughts are not only to his family but also to members of FAIBS, who knew him.
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Greg Blackman, FAIBS
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Awful to hear of the loss of Joe. If the family agrees, perhaps FAIBS could post a brief sketch of Joe's interesting life? Regardless, all the very best to all concerned.
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Ben Page, FAIBS
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That is terribly sad and I am so sorry for you and the others who were closest to Joe. I will always remember the time he took me around in his RV when we were teaching the University of the 3rd age bird watching, and how much I learnt from him. I remember being so impressed that he could identify each grey blur while driving an RV!
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Friends of Adelaide International Bird Sanctuary (FAIBS) Mary-Ann van Trigt and Anna Woods
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FAIBS farewells a treasured Friend On April 17th we received the very sad news that FAIBS Treasurer Joe Dafoe had passed away after battling a short-lived but very aggressive illness. A passionate birder and family man, Joe will long be remembered for his generosity of spirit and highly valued contribution in sharing his love and respect of nature and birds with FAIBS and so many others. His wide-ranging technical and birding knowledge and skills influenced and inspired many an experienced and aspiring birder, and his years of tireless travels and observations enabled significant contributions to innumerable shorebird and bush bird surveys. Threaded through all this was his dry, wry sense of humour, always such an asset in the often focussed and precise birding milieu. As a very capable and true friend and Friend, Joe was for FAIBS both Treasurer and a treasure. He will be sorely missed by FAIBS members and many others in the birding world. Our sincere condolences go to his wife Jill and family who gave such dignity to Joe as his final days became inevitable.
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A bird nerd with a friendly smile, childlike enthusiasm and a love for just being involved. I’m sadden by Joes passing but grateful to have worked, learnt and known him.
Warrick Barnes, Adelaide SA
Jill, my mom called me yesterday to share your sad news. I am so sad for you all, but happy to have known such a wonderful man and dear friend to my dad. He will always be fondly remembered.
When the isolation restrictions began, I started my favourite puzzle...when you and my mom were in Australia, Dan and I took my dad and Annie to the museum. Joseph was there and we had a visit. He gave my dad this puzzle and said how much he liked it because the museum was in the painting. I thought of Joseph and dad every time I worked on the puzzle these last few weeks and I just finished it today!
Anyway, please give my love to Mischa and Cassia - losing and missing a dad is the hardest thing to live with. Love and hugs to you all
Emily Brigham Long Sault ON
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Sending you so much love - joe meant so much to us & he will really be missed. Very Thankful for so many great memories & laughs.
Ashley House Ottawa ON
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I am so glad we spent time together when you were here last summer. Its the first time I really got a chance to sit and talk with the two of you together. Its so sad and hard to believe he's gone. He was a lovely man and so kind to the kids and me when we would visit him at the store. I know how much he will be missed.
Debra Chaibai, Manotick ON
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Jill and Joe,
Your news leaves me utterly heartbroken and sad.
I have been thinking of you and your family a lot with the wildfires in Australia (and a baby crib incident -- read below), and now to know you have been dealing with Joe's illness -- I just can't imagine the stress of it all throughout the holidays and beyond. You and Joe were really there for me in when I lived in Ottawa and you were like the extended family I never had when it came to shared values and worldview. To be honest, this just flat out sucks... and just seems so unfair, that this could happen to such great people.
…
Miss you lots and sending you lots of love from freezing cold Canada,
Dayna Edwards, Waterloo. ON
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Hi Jill, I did hear the news about Joe. I am so sorry for your loss and that cancer took another incredible person too soon. He was really one of the great ones and he made a wonderful impact on so many people’s lives. Joe always had a positive approach to life and his smile was infectious, and I will always remember him for that. I am so thankful that my path crossed with yours and Joe’s. I read your post about how he didn’t complain even in his very last days, and that sounds exactly like Joe. Thank you for writing the blog and for giving us a snapshot in to your and his journey. I am so sorry it didn’t turn out differently; I was really hoping it would. People dealing with a terminal illness are tough as nails, they have to be. Knowing Joe, I am sure he made the most of it enjoyed every minute with his loving family. He was (and still is) lucky to have you guys, as you are to have had him.
…
Jacqueline Bailey. ONW
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Jill and Joseph, I'm not sure exactly how you guys are. With everything going on, I haven't been able to keep up with the updates, but I understand you guys are surrounded by amazing people and trying to be as comfortable as possible. I've been aching to figure out what to say these last few weeks, sometimes it comes easy to me, sometimes not, this is definitely the latter. But you guys need to know how I feel.
I haven't spent years, day in and day out, but have gotten to know Joseph in my own way, especially having had the privilege to live with him. To say he's a stand up guy, someone who is smart and measured and kind, still seems too little. I look up, like nothing else to those qualities, and with everything happening around us right now, it's those qualities we need more than anything. I hope you guys know that from me.
…
Anyways, I owe you both sooo much for being so kind to me and giving me a home base in such a beautiful city. I hope you guys stay safe and continue to be with people you love.
Nathan Siteman, Toronto ON
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We were talking about Joseph with Alvaro and Sofia .
Alvaro says : “Oh what a pity!
Joseph is a great man.
He was very nice with us when we were in Australia”. the whole family agrees.
Alvaro Valtanen, Elche Spain
Dear Jill, I hope you are as calm as possible in this difficult moment. We have all of you in our thoughts. Sofia, Alvaro, Daniel &M.José ... Elche Spain
Dear Jill, I hope you are as calm as possible in this difficult moment. We have all of you in our thoughts. Sofia, Alvaro, Daniel &M.José ... Elche Spain
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Hi Jill. I just wanted to reach out and tell you that I’m thinking of you all; my heart hurts for you. As I mentioned to Mischa, I love your family; please remember that you have love and support on the other side of the world.
I loved my time at your house as a teenager; either hanging out with Mischa or working for Joe. It has been so many years since that time and I love that the connection remains.
Take care. Big hugs.
Katie Chinkiwsky, Ottawa ON
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Jill - Al and I send along our love and support.
Joe's car trip with Mischa to Wirra Wonga was heartwarming. The bush grave setting is beautiful. It speaks to peace, tranquility and beauty a place that you will visit and continue to connect. That whole father/son trip was inspiring.
...
Joe is a man of courage and character. Doing these feats....assigning books, treasures, solar panels and especially the Mercedes, then selecting his final resting place with instructions re: celebration of life, shows a man of depth managing his legacy on his own terms.
Mary tells me Joe is really struggling now and that Cassia is there last night to support and nursing will be called in. I can't imagine how difficult this is and just want to hug you both. If there's any solace in this awful time, it is that Craig talks to Mischa, that these ties are strong and will continue.
I watched the Easter Vigil Mass with Pope Francis in the beautiful Vatican, inspired by the message of the Resurrection and thought of Joe.
Lots of love, Gail
Gail & Al O'Brien Ottawa ON
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OH Jill am so happy that you have your Merc! and the color you wanted it and the great action of Joe... all sound and look as it is was part of a story , a movie... but is reality and has another side. However the best is that you are doing it together, and with so much deserved mutual love. In spite of the times we are all living, Congratulations. Am feeling better from my flu and if it was or is Corona I feel like a Queen. Lots of virtual hugs for both of you.
We love you .
Alicia and Patricio Villaroel, Morphett Vale SA
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Yeah, go Joseph! That command centre certainly rules!
We had quite a chuckle (for a change); great organisation skills Joseph. When you speak, everyone listens & jumps to attention. Great to see the little ones just chillin’.
....
Thinking of you both and sending love and hugs.
Carol & Graeme Field, Canberra ACT
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… I am sorry you both are going through this. I have been thinking about you both all day. I remember the first time I met Joseph - at a party in JKM's house. We walked out and there were Northern lights. Joseph and someone else laid down in the parking lot to watch them. I thought he was so cool
I still think he is very cool and I feel blessed to have you both in my life. I love you both very much. I wish I could take some of the pain away.
…
I'm sending you both peace and strength and joy in the small victories ahead.
Pascale Pierre, Ottawa ON
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Oh dear Jill, so very very sad to hear this. … Joseph is Ken’s all time best friend in so many many ways. When Ken and Joseph have been together, or just emailing each other, Ken has always enjoyed Joseph‘s company — traveling, birding, drinking or just hanging out together. I
can see it in his eyes and know his heart is so sad. The four of us have done so many wonderful things together over these 45+ years....such good times good memories to keep forever. Sending love and hugs.....eileen
Eileen & Ken Ross, Ottawa ON
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Dad phoned this morning to let us know the sad news. Even though we knew it was coming it doesn't make your loss any easier. Hope you guys are doing ok, and so grateful that you have all been together during this.
Joe will always be missed, and we will make a donation to Oxfam Canada in his honour. He was the best uncle, and it's not fair that the good ones go early.
Chelsea sends her love as well.
…
Love,
Julian Dafoe, Gatineau Quebec
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Hi Jill
I wanted to say how sorry I am. Joe had such a profound affect on me. Even now things I learned from him still come up in daily conversation. Last week I was explaining to a friend that the dice they were looking at were expensive because of the type of mineral they were made out of (malachite and lapis) and when they asked how I knew that, I said I used to work for a geologist.
I bring his love for science and nature into my classroom on a daily basis and I introduced my children to rocks and birds and astronomy because of Joe.
Joe was also the first person to give me permission to question my beliefs and my upbringing and encouraged me to look at things from a different perspective.
I don’t know if he ever knew how much of an impact he had on my life, but I wanted you to know.
My wind chimes still proudly hang.
All my love
Johanna Gordon. ONW
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Jill I just read the blog post. I am so very heartbroken for you and your family. Joe was fantastic and I feel blessed to have known him. I’m amazed by your resilience and love for him. This must be tough but what a lifetime of memories you’ve had together. I am praying for you and your family. With love, Sannah
Sannah Choi, Toronto ON
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Sannah Choi, Toronto ON
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Dear Jill and family. Ken called us with the news. Joseph was such a good man, a father, a grandfather, a husband, teacher, naturalist and lover of good wine and good times. We will miss him so.
PiP and Paul Frigon, Almonte ON
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Debra Chaibai, Manotick ON
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Dear Joe!
I heard from Rob today that you were ill with a tumour.
It was sad news and although it was some time since we saw each other I could not hold my tears back.
You are the kindest and nicest person I have ever met. You do not have a bad bone in your body. Not one!
Christina and I are sending you all good energies we can muster.
In love,
Ulf & Christina Caap, (former Manager IKEA Ottawa) , Parry Sound ON
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Oh Jill - I'm so sorry...I don't really have the right words to say but I love you and Joe and I'm just really sad and sorry. I'm sending you all my love and thinking about all the happy memories we've shared. There's been so many...there's a lot of them to think about.
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| Canadian Bird Forest, Charlie Crawford, Perth WA ... our little way to say we are thinking of you. |
Erin Ross, Perth WA
Hello Jill. - I'm very sorry about Joseph. I just see on Facebook.
Hope you are doing okay. I'm glad you are not alone at least you have your family.
It is easy for me to say " Time will heal " or " He is no longer in pain " but
still I'm so sad for Joseph that he had to go young. Now day I consider
him pretty young. It break my heart thinking about what went in his
mind since he found out his illness and you to stay along through the
journey. I can imagine how difficult it was for to you both.
...
We believe reincarnation. For us it take 7 to 49 days us to come back
with new life. First 7 days, they go visit all the family, friend and
company then we have first cerebration on 7th. But some it takes longer
to decide come back like 49 days. So again we do cerebration on 49th
just in case then put ash to grave.
...
And also they can only come back when people are thinking about him. So
whenever, wherever, whatever you are or doing, think about him, he is
right beside you.
I'm really sorry Joseph has gone. Please take care and hope you will be
okay.
Lots and lots of love
Machiko (Ottawa Blooms) Ottawa ON
Machiko (Ottawa Blooms) Ottawa ON
Dear Jill,
Thanks for your call last night.
It wasn’t the call we wanted but it was an honour.
I seemed to spend most of the night thinking about the last 40 years.
When you get a text from me you know things are drastic.
Part of my being has been formed by our friendship over the time.
Especially any sense of humour has been influenced by Joe.
...
Here are a few thoughts where we have had to have a sense of humour.
How about when we painted the grey civic and Joe caressed the wet paint and someone else had an issue with another car in Adelaide.
How about when we went camping to the Flinders in the rain.
How about the years we played squash, sometimes against unsporting opponents and still went home feeling good with our team mates.
What about the years we were apart but reunions that seemed we had never been apart.
Employing Mischa and certain we could make things turn out right.
What about living together for a period under the oak tree and packing apples together
The only wages Joe wanted was some fruit for the family.
What about having Joe next to me in an early morning confrontation with an irate Rocco. That definitely needed a sense of humour.
Another thing needing a sense of humour. All of the fruit and juice and stuff we thought might just make a difference to Joseph’s last months
No ice creams, cakes or chocolate from Forest Range but we have always been honest with our thoughts and actions.
Heading down to Glenelg with a pocket full of gold still has me smiling.
The final thought may have Joe in angst. The cat was not sleeping last night but she wasn’t outside catching birds she was in the lounge with me listening to Janis Joplin’s Mercedes Benz. But we would not have chips at the beach in our Porsche.
Love Graeme
Graeme (& Fiona) Schultz, Lenswood SA
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| Katrina and Cassia - stocktake counting ONW |
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| Cassia, Katrina, Joe and Jill, watching for meteors, (Greg & Florrie's Cottage) Crosby Lake, Perth ON
Katrina Jorna (Perkins), Melbourne VIC
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Hi Jill,
I am not on Facebook often so I don’t know how late I am in expressing my sincere condolences to you. Joe was a great guy! I loved his enthusiasm and passion for nature.... I’m so sorry that this has happened to you and Joe. I’m sure that you have many awesome memories to keep you smiling. Reach out to me if you need anything.
Lynnne & Dave Jenkins, Oakville ON
Lynnne & Dave Jenkins, Oakville ON
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Oh Jill, I'm sad that the news wasn't better. I know that Joseph is receiving the best of care and there's a lot of love pouring in to you - from me and every one of your friends all over the world.I feel honoured to be among the folks that Joseph had visits with in his birding tour last summer.
If there's ever been a force that unites people, it's been your family. You Dafoes rock!
Melinda Vale, Victoria BC---
Dear Joseph.. tried posting on your blog without success.
I’d like to bid you farewell before it’s too late, I’m sooo sorry that you are leaving us. I like your personality and presence very much.
I hope that your transition is full of love and tranquility.
My love to you, Jill, Misha and Cassia..
bigg Hugg sincerely Pablo Villaroel
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Dear Jill, Although expected, it was so sad to receive the news of Joe's passing.
I will always remember him fondly and have been so honoured to know him. I hope that the new life that awaits you, after some days, gradually begins to feel bearable Sadness comes in waves, sometimes like tsunamis, sometimes like soft little waves and over time all the beautiful memories that no one can take from you, begin to be pleasant to remember again. I'm sorry I can't go and give you even a hug or to be at the funeral, but this virus has even prevented me from going out to buy a post card with the movement restrictions we have. If I can help you with something, you only have to ask for it. I send you my deepest condolences and a big big hug until we can see each other again. Wishing You all the force You need to find the joy of life again.
... All my love to you all Annukka Valtanen, Elche Spain (Pablo's Mother)
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Jill , our love is with you , Joe and all the family. A big hug for a wonderful man who we just adored . Love Sally and Graeme
Sally & Graeme Tonkin Unley, SA, (Mallee Fowl Survey)
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Hi Jill. Thank you for your message; tragically enough, it's my turn so send you my condolences your terrible loss... Joe was a remarkable man. I don't know if he ever fully knew it, but he was a bit of a father-figure for us ... We enjoyed his company so much. He was a great boss, but more importantly, a great person. I've always admired your relationship with him and have often thought of you two as a prime example of what it is to be in a good marriage. None of this is fair, but then again, I don't think Joe's belief system allowed for "fairness" or "karma", or any of that stuff. Neither does mine. He was always an absolute rationalist, and it's part of what made him so fantastic. Please give my best to your kids. We will be many to grieve their father, your husband. He was one of a kind, and always will be. Love to all of you,
Amèline Chauvette-Groulx Bergen Norway (Nature Boutique)
Sally & Graeme Tonkin Unley, SA, (Mallee Fowl Survey)
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Hi Jill. Thank you for your message; tragically enough, it's my turn so send you my condolences your terrible loss... Joe was a remarkable man. I don't know if he ever fully knew it, but he was a bit of a father-figure for us ... We enjoyed his company so much. He was a great boss, but more importantly, a great person. I've always admired your relationship with him and have often thought of you two as a prime example of what it is to be in a good marriage. None of this is fair, but then again, I don't think Joe's belief system allowed for "fairness" or "karma", or any of that stuff. Neither does mine. He was always an absolute rationalist, and it's part of what made him so fantastic. Please give my best to your kids. We will be many to grieve their father, your husband. He was one of a kind, and always will be. Love to all of you,
Amèline Chauvette-Groulx Bergen Norway (Nature Boutique)
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| Amèline Chavette-Groulx |
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| Gala Chavette-Groulx |
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Dear Joe
I heard that you are not well. It makes me very sad to think of you in pain but I’m so glad your family is with you. I don’t think you can know how important a role you played in my life. 
when I meditate in the morning I often call you to mind not just as the best boss I ever had but as my benefactor. The kindness and support you showed me helped me get through some very tough times. Sending you healing wishes from Ottawa. Love Michelle
when I meditate in the morning I often call you to mind not just as the best boss I ever had but as my benefactor. The kindness and support you showed me helped me get through some very tough times. Sending you healing wishes from Ottawa. Love Michelle
Michelle Coyne, Ottawa. ON. (ONW)
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Hi Joe,
Sorry for not writing, but please don't think that I haven't been thinking about you. You are such an amazing friend. Kind, funny, generous, so easy to get along with, and the absolute best travel buddy. I'm thinking I might go to Argentina by myself, but it definitely won't be the same. I hear that you're feeling OK these days and that you might be able to go home on the weekend. It will be great to be there in that comfortable apartment with your family close by. I'm so pleased that they've managed to control the pain and the vomiting. Keep eating guacamole and drink some margaritas!!
Love, Sharon
Sharon Channer, Ottawa ON
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I have been thinking about you Joseph. And by coincidence my brother-in-law Michael from Kanata Ontario brought into focus some memories from when we all lived in the Valley. One lovely August evening, years ago, you, Michael, and I ventured out for a Perseid meteor shower viewing in a farmers field outside of Kanata. It was a great evening that both Michael and I treasure. Michael has just bought a small reflector to share with his granddaughter and I have decided to unpack my old scope and see if I can interest our Jack in it. It is amazing how memories can be like close friends, separated by distance and time, but not in spirit.
Your friend Cyril
Cyril Siteman, Halifax N.S.
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In memorian. We regret the untimely departure of our good friend Joe Dafoe. A kind, generous and cheerful soul. He was a geologist by profession , a colleague who although never work as such, was a keen observer of nature and a lover of life outdoors. Be now resting in peace through eternity. We extend our sympathy and condolences to his beloved family for such a great loss.
Patricio and Alicia Villaroel.
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TRIBUTE TO JOSEPH
I’m now of an age when the grim reaper‘s boney fingers have touched many of my dear friends. And now I face the loss of my oldest friend. Allow me to offer this tribute to this dear friend of many years, Joseph Dafoe.
How do you say farewell? How do you sort through your emotions, trying to find words to best describe what you felt about them when they were once here and are now gone? Lost now are the times, when in life, you could share or express your love and support for them. Only now in memory you hope, they might still hear your words.
Joseph, throughout his life’s journey, was a very unique person, whose friendship and support, along with that of his wife Jill, I’ve cherished for over 45 years. He was not only a friend but also a comrade, a business partner and a fellow traveler. Our friendship remained intact despite the miles between Canada and his adopted home in Australia.
Years ago, we worked together at the Canadian Nature Federation in Ottawa. He began his retail career as manager of the Federation’s bookshop. A career I encouraged in a variety of ways, sharing ideas, etc. After he fell in love with Jill, I co-signed a loan to help bring her to Canada. Later that year, their marriage was a delightful event surrounded by so many of their good friends.
Years later, I worked with Joseph after he, Jill and Mischa returned from Australia with hundreds of sheep skins. Between us we created The Wallaroo Sheepskin Company. Years later few worked together developing Our Natural World stores and the Canadian Museum of Nature boutique in Ottawa. Joseph and I partnered in a rowing venture, selling art prints, posters, and other paraphilia at Crew events in Canada and the US. Through it all, we spent a lot of time together, with never an angry word between us.
Over the years, my wife Clare and I have shared many special times with Jill, Joseph, Mischa and Cassia. In fact, Joseph was best man at our wedding and Cassia was the flower girl. We’ve enjoyed family events in Canada as well as their visits to our homes both in Maine and later, Nova Scotia. Ours has been- and still is, a warm, rich friendship filled with laughter, conversation, food, wine, and sharing of many stories and adventures.
Carrying firewood back to the house the other evening, I paused for a moment with memories of Joseph deep in my heart. I stared into the heavens, the twinkling stars punching tiny holes into the night sky. I was reminded again of Joseph- his love of nature and too, his sense of curiosity, wonder, and exploration of everything around him.
When one is struggling with loss or sadness, I believe we can find hope and healing in the essential elements of the universe. I’m reminded we’re all made of the same stuff, atoms- just like the universes and galaxies. It's easier to let go and stare at a night sky, since loss and sadness seem somehow to disappear into the darkness. That evening I was looking into the future too and the empowering process of healing I so wanted for Jill and Joseph’s children, their families and his many friends scattered around the globe.
Joseph, I believe, despite his passing, remains infused with that unique energy and spirit that guided his entire life. A life he unselfishly shared with those around him. A loving husband. A caring father and grandfather. A trusted friend. Let us honor too, his unrelenting reverence and stewardship for our natural world. Jospeh, taught me there is a history in the universe, which gave me permission to consider my own life and beliefs.
Now he has entered another space. A space free of the constraints of constant pain or suffering. A space where once again he can roam, explore and fill his mind with wonderment. Jill, I know you will forever hold fondly, his memory. Mischa and Cassia as you travel forward with your own families, embrace too those memories of your loving dad. May each of us in our own way, cherish and preserve some lasting memory of Joseph and how he, like sunlight, helped nurture our lives.
Safe passage dear friend.
Alexander Bridge in Nova Scotia
To me this is the equivalent of an on-line
Condolence Book filled with your messages sent in
so many different forms.
If I have missed yours I'm sorry.
Also know that many friends/family sent daily/almost-daily messages of inspiration etc. and they were the hardest to capture in one entry.
