Johnson, Joseph Brian – October 1, 1949 – December 27, 2018 It is with grieving spirits but peaceful hearts that we announce the passing of Joe Johnson.  Joe passed away peacefully at home on December 27, 2018 surrounded by his family. Joe will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 46 years Wendy (Mifflin) Johnson and cherished daughters Cathie (Mike) Verfaillie, Cindy (Dan) Crow) and Jodey Johnson (Ricky Loewen). Proud and loving Papa to Michael (Kayley) Verfaillie, Kristen Verfaillie (Jason Laprise), Joseph (Vanessa) Johnson, Amanda Johnson, Ethan Crow, Benjamin Johnson and Breanne Johnson.   Much loved Great Papa to Brooklynn and Aiden Johnson, Mason Johnson-Mertz and Jayce Johnson-Crosby. Joe was immensely proud of his children, the lives they built and the hope they brought to his life, of his grandchildren and their accomplishments and of his great grandchildren for their vigour.   Brother of Ted (Rose) Johnson, Mark (Elsie) Johnson, Greg (Judy) Johnson, Kevin Johnson. Debbie (Mike) Bradie Special Brother in Law to Lynn Rilett, Sandy Gray and Sharron Blackburn Joe will fondly be remembered by several nieces, nephews, friends and past colleagues.   Joe was predeceased by his parents Joseph and Theresa (Terry) Johnson, sister Lynda Rilett, brother James Johnson, brother and sister in law Bob (Vicki) Johnson and brother in law Randy Blackburn. Joe had a career that led him down many roads.  He drove transport truck, was employed at Pepsi, Vachon, Hostess, Dempsters, and McAllister.  He also owned and operated a variety store. His final roads travelled were with Electrozad. Joe sincerely enjoyed his time working at Electrozad.  He always had a story to tell or a joke to be played on someone. Joe spoke very highly of his co-workers and enjoyed going into work each day. Joe always enjoyed being in truck, behind the wheel making his deliveries.  Joe touched the lives of many people over the years and he made sure he left a smile on the face of each and every person he encountered. The family would like extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone at Electrozad for their ongoing support, compassion and kind words expressed for Joe throughout his journey.  Joe truly enjoyed the treats and visits. We are very grateful to everyone Joe worked with. Joe was an avid Toronto Maple Leafs fan and enjoyed the sport of hockey.  He volunteered with London Minor Hockey as a coach and enjoyed working with the players to develop their skills and knowledge of the game.  He continued his passion for hockey and coaching when his grandchildren began playing the sport of hockey as well as other sports. He would coach each of them from the sidelines, encourage them and he truly was their biggest fan.   Joe was a Member of the Moose Lodge for 42 years.  During that time he enjoyed playing darts and socializing with many friends.   Joe was a strong man that faced life’s struggles with positivity and humour.  He was an incredible man, he always thought of others before himself. He took great pride in everything he did.  He had a zest for life, a sense of humour and determination to do whatever he set his mind to. He loved, cherished and provided strength to his family.  The memories of family vacations, holiday gatherings, summer barbecues and just being together we will have to cherish forever. We thank him for the memories.  We all feel blessed to have had him in our lives. The family would like to extend a very special thank you to family and friends that have been on this journey with us.  Words can never express our gratitude for you on-going love and support. A special thank you also goes to the nurses, PSW’s and all other health care providers for the special care, compassion and attention provided to Joe during the past several years. Today we are full of sorrow, but we will smile a little more with each tomorrow. So please, Joe, go.  Be at rest and know, to us you were always the best. You will always be missed but never forgotten. At Joe’s request cremation has taken place.   The Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, January 3, 2019 from 3:00-7:00 p.m. at the Kent Belgian Dutch Canadian Club – Main Ball Room.  34 Byng Ave Chatham. ON. A tribute to Joe’s life will take place at 5:00 p.m. Memorial donations can be made to Community Living Chatham-Kent , LHIN – Palliative Care , Chatham Minor Hockey