Obituaries

We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our Dad, Joe Gasper. Dad was born in Regina, Saskatchewan and passed away on December 1, 2024 at the age of 88. Dad was predeceased by his parents Annie and Mike; his brothers Michael, Gordon, and Louie; and his sister Mary.

As the youngest member of the Gasper family, Dad embodied hard work throughout his life, never shying away from fixing, building, or improvising to solve a problem - like making a perfect dustpan out of a piece of sheet metal. Dad attended St. Augustine Elementary School. In Grade 7, he competed in a marble competition and was the Regina Champion, winning a new bike. Dad sold newspapers at the corner of Hamilton Street and 11th Avenue, calling out, "Just a nickel, half a dime, worth a quarter anytime," always hoping for a quarter. He later worked at CP Rail, where he typed envelopes for ticket agents across the province. After being introduced to plumbing by his older brothers, Dad proudly dedicated over 55 years to the trade. Anyone who knew him would say he was always the first to lend a helping hand to family and friends.

Dad was passionate about sports, having played golf on sand greens in his younger years. He enjoyed curling and bowling. He always looked forward to year-round fishing trips. While he wasn’t a hunter himself, he loved to tag along on trips with the guys. Dad was a dedicated fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Saskatchewan Roughriders. He was a sideline referee who always cheered loudly, hoping for another big win. He also enjoyed listening to Blues music.

Dad's second home was the cottage at Island View, where he found peace at the lake. He took great pride in the cottage and the addition he built. His yard was always immaculate, and he never complained about the work. Dad created countless memories with family and friends. He was a master at building campfires and wasn’t afraid to share his talents. He found joy in standing on the deck, with his hands behind his back, watching the beautiful sunsets reflect off the water. The cottage was truly his HAPPY PLACE!

Dad is survived by his loving wife, our stepmom, Lois Leason. We are grateful for the love and commitment Lois showed Dad during their 40 years together, including the most challenging months of the past year. Many good times were enjoyed with friends at the lake and warm winter holidays in Phoenix. Lois’s family became our family, and for that, we are thankful. He loved his stepchildren Cory (Frank) Elek, Jason Leason, and Troy Leason who passed away in 2009. Dad loved his grandchildren Brett Elek and Brooklyn Elek (Blair McDonald) and their daughter Bella, who would bring an instant smile to his face. Dad expressed his hope to see Bella running around, and we know that Great-Papa Joe will be watching over her with admiration and love. You all were a blessing in his life, and he always enjoyed the fun times he shared with you.

Dad is survived by his loving daughters and sons-in-law Wendy (Murray) Sutherland and Joanne Gasper (Aron Schmidt), and our mom Gayle. Dad is also survived by many nieces, nephews and family-in-laws on both sides.

He was a father who loved, supported, and cared for us girls. Dad was always our number one fan. We will cherish beautiful, lasting memories of camping trips, visiting family in the United States, and just recently, spending time at the lake when he could no longer drive. Dad, words cannot express how much we love you and will forever miss you. You held our hands through the various stages of our lives, and we are forever grateful for the BEST Dad. We could always feel how proud you were of us, and we were proud of you, too. These farewell days are tough, but we find peace knowing that you are now again driving into the sunset.

Dad, you held many titles throughout your life, including Son, Nephew, Brother, Husband, Dad, Papa, Great-Papa, Uncle and Friend. All who knew you loved you. We will miss your infectious laugh, smile, quick-wit, Hungarian stubbornness and teasing nature. You will forever be remembered by how you loved your sweets, your impeccable knowledge, your love of crossword puzzles and your dream of winning the lottery with your weekly $6 tickets. Friend and family gatherings will not be the same without you, but we know you will be there in spirit. The qualities you exemplified will forever leave an impact on our lives. Dad expressed to us that he lived a good life. We deeply felt his love for us and loved him even more.

We want to thank Shannon, Natasha, Rob, and the amazing staff at Dove House, Cameron Street location, for their guidance during Dad’s passing. We will forever be grateful for the compassion and care you provided our family and Dad.

At Dad's request, we will not be holding a funeral service. Instead, we will host a Celebration of Life this coming summer of 2025. Dad loved helping others and had the biggest heart. In lieu of flowers, we kindly ask that you consider paying it forward, by helping someone, donating to a charity of your choice, or treating the person behind you in line at a drive thru. By doing this, you will honour our Dad's memory.

Rest in peace, sweet Dad. We love you.