Obituary of Joseph McMeechan

Joseph "Joe" McMeechan, born on October 12, 1935, in St.Catherines, Scotland, and passed away peacefully on December 18, 2023 in Strathmore Alberta. Joe was a cherished husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, great grandfather, and brother.  His journey through life was marked by love, dedication, and the joy he brought to those around him.

Joe was predeceased by his mother Jane, father Joseph, his beloved daughter Anne and brother in-law Tom. He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Marion, with whom he shared a life full of love and companionship. His legacy continues through his son Joe, daughter Jane and her husband Peter, along with his adored grandchildren Heather and her fiance Adam, Holly and her husband Matt, and Scott and his wife Shannon. His two precious great-grandchildren, Wesley Joseph and Violet Elizabeth, will miss their old papa’s warmth and kindness. Joe also leaves behind his caring siblings—sister Margaret, brother Richard and his wife Maureen, and brother William and his wife Heather.

Joe began his work life by serving his Millwright apprenticeship in Scotland at Steins Brickwork, Whitecross. In 1974, Joe, Marion, and their family embarked on a new chapter by emigrating to Fort McMurray, Alberta, Canada. There, Joe continued his career as a Millwright and Supervisor at Suncor and Syncrude. After a fulfilling career, he retired in 1990 and, alongside Marion, enjoyed a well-deserved retirement. They initially moved to Taber and finally settled in Strathmore in 2022, where he was surrounded by his loving family.

An avid fisherman, Joe cherished the moments spent by the water, teaching his grandchildren the patience and skill of the sport when they were young. His talent for woodworking was showcased in the birdhouses he crafted for his family, each one a testament to his handiness and attention to detail. Joe had a profound love for opera music, with Mario Lanza being his favorite singer. He often played Lanza's music, humorously using it as a signal for lingering party
guests that it was time to head home.

As we bid farewell those who knew Joe would describe him as a loving, handy, and selfless man. His actions always spoke louder than words, as he continuously put the needs of his family before his own. His memory will live on, not only through his family but also in the hearts of all those he called friends along the way. He will be sadly missed.