Joe passed away peacefully with family by his side February 28, 2017. Joe was born in Amato, Italy and immigrated to Vancouver BC in 1949 at the age of 17. Joe worked for Canadian Pacific Railway and later in construction. He had an avid love of music and with that came dancing. Joe loved to travel and was able to visit California, Las Vegas, Hawaii, Mexico and Italy throughout his lifetime. His motto was to “live life his way”. He moved from Vancouver to Castlegar to be close to his niece Lillian and her family in 2015.
He is survived by his sister Caterina Cipriano and family of Vancouver, sister-in-law Nina Cianflone of Revelstoke, niece Lillian Cianflone-Evin (Lorne) and family of Castlegar, niece Marie Marbeck (Trevor) and family of Revelstoke, and niece Donna Spankes (Jim) of Kamloops. Joe is pre-deceased by his parents Sera and Frank; brother Tony; nephews Tony Jr. and Rudy; and niece Terri Cianflone.
The funeral mass was held at St. Ritas Catholic Church on Tuesday March 7, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. with Fr. Rafael Benosa as Celebrant. Everyone is welcome to join us for a reception in Joe’s honour following the service, in the hall of St. Rita’s Church.
Entombment will be held at Ocean View Burial Park Abbey Mausoleum, Burnaby BC. on Friday March 10, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. The family wishes to pass a special thank you to Dr. Merritt and Dr. Vasil and all of the staff at the Castleview Care Centre for their care and support. We would also like to thank Jordan Wren and staff of Castlegar Funeral Chapel for their kindness and support during this difficult time. You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence at the family’s online memorial at www.castlegarfuneral.com