Memory Eternal! + Youssif (Joseph) Hanna
Memory Eternal! Youssif (Joseph) Hanna + 1932–2017
It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our wonderful husband, father, and grandfather at the age of 85. Beloved husband of Najwa (Sawaya) for 55 years. Loving father and father-in-law: to George and Sophie, Andrew, and Dannie, Gina, and Tasso. Most cherished Jiddo to his pride and joys: Nicholas, Philip, Joseph, William, and Gabriel. His nieces and nephews will remember their 'ammo' with fondness. He is pre-deceased by his parents, Ferris and Galia and his siblings Hasibee, Khaylek, Theo, George and Mary.
He will be most remembered for his generosity, kindness, devotion to his community and church, and his passion for his magnificent gardens.
Joe was born in Chebaa, Lebanon, and emigrated to Montreal, Canada in 1957, where he worked hard to become an accomplished businessman, achieving admirable success with recognition as a pioneer in innovation to the garment industry.
He enjoyed life to the fullest traveling extensively and spending much time with his wife at the home he adored on a quiet lake in the Laurentians. It was there that he built and lovingly maintained his large elaborate vegetable garden year after year. In the summer, it was never unusual for Joe to arrive at a neighbor or friends'home with a basket full of his garden's pickings.
Joe was a devoted member of St. George Orthodox Church having served on the parish council and the church choir for many years, including a period as the choir president. He was a member of the Archdiocese Board of Trustees and of the Order of St. Ignatius where he served as local and regional chairperson.
He dedicated himself to the creation of Camp Transfiguration, the official summer camp for the Can-Am region. He embraced his heritage and demonstrated an everlasting love for his place of birth.
Joe's good-natured caring, outspokenness, and his never-ending generosity, endeared him to his family, friends, and community. He will be forever missed.
His family is extremely grateful for the display of care and kindness by the nurses and doctors at St. Mary's Hospital.
The family received condolences at Saint George Antiochian Orthodox Church Montreal, where services were held on Thursday, May 11 and Friday, May 12, 2017. The Very Rev. Dr. Joseph F. Purpura, Economos Antony Gabriel, The Very Rev. Michel Fawaz, and Rev. Jean El Murr presided at his services.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church or the Cedar's Cancer Foundation.