Obituary of Josef Koncovy

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Josef Koncovy, of Hantsport, on Thursday, August 29, 2024. Born on October 29, 1932, in Dolné Kočkovce, Czechoslovakia. His family immigrated to Canada in the spring of 1936, accompanied by his father and mother, Jozef Koncovy and Maria (Pavlech) Koncová; brother, Anton and sister, Anna. Upon arriving in Canada, both Jozef and his father had their names anglicized by Immigration Canada to Josef.

Affectionately known as "Zedko" to his grandchildren and "Koko" to his great-granddaughters, Joe was a beloved figure in his family. He passed away peacefully at the Hants Community Hospital, Windsor, surrounded by family. He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Audrey Elizabeth (Faulkner); children, Julie (Kent) Nickerson, Josef (Patti) and Margie (Tomo) Yamamoto; sisters, Hellen and Anne; seven grandchildren, two great-granddaughters and many nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, Joe was predeceased by his daughter, Mary, whose memory he held dear and his brothers, Tony and Bill.

Though his youth was filled with incredible adventures, like survival training in the far North, travelling the west coast with his buddy from Vancouver to Tijuana Mexico in a 15-year-old car that burned more oil than gas and even playing basketball against the Harlem Globetrotters, these were just a few of the unique stories that highlighted Joe's spirited nature. While he did not define himself by these moments, they were emblematic of his adventurous and curious spirit, always willing to embrace life’s surprises with joy and humor.

Joe had a love for travel, his most memorable trips were travelling to Europe with his family and reuniting with his Slovak relatives as well as an unforgettable trip to visit family in Japan.

During Joe's 22-year Canadian military career, one of his most notable roles involved his language skills, monitoring background chatter from Soviet communications. After retiring from the military, Joe continued to share his skills and passion as a teacher of Intermediate Industrial at Windsor Regional Vocational School, where he created many fond memories with students and colleagues.

Joe had a knack for tinkering with projects in his garage, crafting metalworks and creating unique pieces with his hands. He found peace and joy at his beloved cottage in Baxters Harbour, where he spent countless hours with family and friends. Joe loved sports, especially hockey, in his younger years he coached minor hockey and in retirement he would plan his day around his favorite team. 

He was known for his warm personality and kindness. Whether he was with a long-time friend or a new acquaintance, Joe had a way of making everyone feel special. A simple trip to pick up eggs and bread could turn into a delightful three-hour adventure, filled with his interesting conversations. He also enjoyed a good snowstorm, deciding to get apples from a local farmer during a snowstorm seemed like a good idea at the time, but turned into a four hour ordeal involving a tow truck! 

The family would like to thank the wonderful nurses and staff of the palliative care unit at Hants Community Hospital for making Joe's final days very peaceful.

Arrangements for cremation have been entrusted to DeMont Family Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 419 Albert St., Windsor (902-798-8317). The family will receive visitors anytime between 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m., Friday, September 20 in the funeral home’s Elmcroft Reception Centre. Everyone is welcome to join the family there for a time of remembering, reflection and refreshment. Anyone wishing to make a donation in Joe’s memory may do so to a charity of your choosing. Messages of condolence may be sent to the family by visiting: www.demontfamilyfuneralhome.ca