Joe passed away peacefully March 29, 2017 at home with his family by his side. He was born in the Chemainus Hospital December 17, 1931 to Henry and Catherine Kernachan. Survived by his wife Hazel, sons Ken (Tami), Mike (Kim), Wayne and daughter Kym (Sean) Whitefield, ten treasured grandchildren who he was so proud of: Tanya, Allan, Shawn, Amy, Nicole, Dustin, Hailey, Keegan, Teah and Shane, as well as four special great grandchildren: Jaden, Kenadie, Jaxson, and Jase.
Predeceased by brothers Dugie, Dave, Jack, Sandy, Billy and Gerry, sisters; Kate, Etta, and Lily and granddaughter Kristin.
Survived by sister-in-laws; Irene, Elinor, and Florence.
Joe was a hardworking family man who worked for MacMillian Bloedel Chemainus Sawmill for 43 years. He was not an idle man as he kept busy puttering in his shop doing small jobs about the house or chopping and splitting firewood. Joe was happiest at his cabin on the Port Alberni canal fishing, sitting watching the boats go by or when family and friends joined him at the cabin. He enjoyed attending hockey and baseball games that his grandchildren were involved with, hunting with his sons and spending time with his daughter. Family reunions and get togethers were always a highlight as it provided the opportunity for him to spend time with family from afar and connecting with the younger generations. Joe treasured his guitars and felt honored when the grandchildren showed an interest in learning to play them. It was a great bonding time and some great music was shared by all.
Joe will be remembered as a kind and thoughtful man and will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
A memorial tea will be held Saturday April 22, 2017 at the Chemainus Seniors Centre located at 9824 Willow St. from 1-3pm.
To leave condolences please see www.evergreencremationcentre.com