JOSEPH (JOE) PYLE

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JOSEPH (JOE) PYLE July 5, 1923 - August 24, 2009 Peacefully, after a short battle with cancer, Joe passed away at his home, West Park Manor, Winnipeg, Manitoba, with his loving sister, Marguerite and her husband Gord Mackie at his side on Monday, August 24, 2009 at the age of 86 years. Remaining to forever cherish Joe's memory are his two children, Joe Jr. and Joanne Pyle, his brother-in-law, Percy Niles of Montreal and nieces, nephews and cousins. He recently moved from Montreal to Winnipeg to be close to his only surviving sister, Marguerite and her husband Gord Mackie. He was predeceased by two brothers, Charlie and Peter and one sister Elisa. Joe was born in the coal-mining town of New Waterford, Cape Breton, the son of the late McDonald and Elisa Pyle. His father was born in Barbados and his mother was born in France. Joe was an all around athlete growing up in New Waterford, where he played hockey, rugby and basketball. His great love was boxing. After he returned home from the army, Joe started a boxing career as a welterweight and middleweight, which lasted from 1944 until the end of 1950. During this time, he was Canadian Middleweight Champion, and Joe was inducted into the Canadian Boxing Hall of Fame. Joe also enjoyed jazz and loved attending the Saturday afternoon jazz sessions at the Pembina Hotel with his brother-in-law, Gord. Joe and his wonderful sense of humour will be greatly missed by his family and many friends. In compliance with Joe's wishes no formal funeral service will take place and a burial in Cape Breton will follow at a later date. Special thanks to the wonderful, warm and caring staff at the West Park Manor. Your compassion and TLC towards us all is deeply appreciated.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 29, 2009