DESPRES, JOSEPH OVILA - The family sadly announces the passing of Joseph Ovila Despres at the Saint John Regional Hospital on Friday, January 3, 2014. Born 1947 in Rogersville, NB he was the son of the late Lionel and Zita (Caissie) Despres. He is survived by his wife Kathleen (Kerr); two sons Jason Despres (Jennifer) of Chilliwack, BC and Joshua Despres (Amanda Aucoin); two grandchildren Jacob Lambert-Despres and Joseph Despres; special little friends Kole and Laken Hooley. He is also survived by his brothers Cleo (Ruth) of Orilla, ON, Ivan (Thora), Romeo (Linda), Louis (Judy), Jean Guy, Ronald (Darlene) all of Saint John; sisters Yvonne Pelletier (John) and Maria Hart (Bob) of Saint John; several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and many friends. Besides his parents he was predeceased by his sisters Rita and Celina; brothers Roger and Fernand. Joe started working at a young age in Waltham, Mass as a meat packer, then went to work with Uncle Andy in Caissie Tree Service. In the winters he learned the drywall finishing trade and enjoyed working at that for over 30 years. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, playing Texas Hold’em with his family and going to horse races.
Resting at Fundy Funeral Home, 230 Westmorland Road, Saint John (646-2424) with visitations on Sunday, January 5, 2014 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated from St. Pius X Church on Monday, January 6, 2014 at 10 a.m. Following cremation, a private family interment will take place at a later date. Remembrances in memory of Joe made to the charity of the donor’s choice would be appreciated by the family. www.fundyfuneralhome.com