Obituary of Joseph William Gallant

With great sadness, the family of Joseph “Joe” William Gallant announces his passing at the Ridgewood Veterans Wing at the age of 93 years. Dad joined his darling Marjorie on July 23, 2019, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Rumford, Maine, he was a son of the late Maurice and Sophie (Aucoin) Gallant, originally from P.E.I., and where Dad spent his early years before accepting the call to serve his country in World War II. He was a proud member of the West Nova Scotia Regiment and served in Sicily, Italy and Holland.

Dad’s post-war civilian career included working in a fish plant on Grand Manan Island, and he eventually made his way to Alberta to work on the oil rigs. While out West, Dad was joined by the love of his life Marjorie (nee Brown) whom he met during his time in Saint John before going to Alberta. They were married in Edmonton and were blessed with seven boys: Michael (Gail), Wayne (Kathy), Brian (Lise), Dale (Juan), Stephen (Marianne), Neal (Lynn) and Jeffrey (Shelly).

The Maritimes were always home for Mom and Dad, and they made the decision to return to their beloved East Coast with seven boys, a station wagon and a moving trailer in tow. The return to the Maritimes helped Mom and Dad to complete their family of 9 with the arrival of their daughters, Denise Kantor (Glen) and Lisa Worden (Daniel).

Dad was passionate in ensuring he provided for his family and his work ethic is an example to his children to this day. He put his carpentry and truck driving skills to good use and always managed to get us the things we needed. It was his love of truck driving that eventually led to his all-time favourite job as a truck driver for Baxter Dairies, from which he retired after a respected career.

For Dad, his greatest blessings were his faith and his family, and he was a loving Grampy and Papa to 22 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

After Mom’s passing, Dad moved to Ridgewood Veterans Wing, where he was lovingly cared for by their amazing staff. His special connection to Prince Edward Island fostered a beautiful friendship with his “Island Girl”, Sharon MacLean, who has now become our honourary sister.

In addition to his children, Dad is survived by his three brothers, Ernie, Frank, and Peter; by his sister Lorraine; as well as several nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by sisters, Violet, Dorothy and Freda and grand-daughter Courtney Comeau. Dad was also the last surviving member of the Bacardi Bunch.

Resting at Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (634-7424) with visiting on Friday, July 26, 2019 from 2:00 - 8:00 PM. There will be a Legion Service, Tribute to a Veteran, at 7pm.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated from Holy Redeemer Parish, 316 Somerset Street, Saint John on Saturday July 27, 2019 at 10:00 AM. Interment will take place in St. Joseph’s Cemetery.      

Remembrances to Ridgewood Veterans Wing - Comfort Fund, Bobby’s Hospice or a charity of the donor’s choice would be appreciated.  www.BrenansFH.com