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JOSEPH ANTHONY DEGEN
Born: Jun 06, 1929
Date of Passing: Feb 08, 2016
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryJOSEPH ANTHONY DEGEN June 6, 1929 - February 8, 2016 After a long and full life, it is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Joe Degen. He was predeceased by his parents, John and Anne Gardner Degen; brothers, John, Everett, Don, Vince, Walt; and sister Anastasia. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 52 years, Pat; and his daughters, Kelli and Kathy. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Zachary, Nicolas and Alexandra. Also, brother-in-law Dave Riddell and sisters-in-law, June Riddell, Budgy and Margaret Degen, and many nieces and nephews. Joe was born in Troy, New York and received his formal education there. He received his teacher certification and B. Ed. in New York and a M. Ed. from the University of Manitoba. He began his 27 year teaching career with the River East School Division. In this capacity, he was a teacher, Department Head of English, Guidance Counsellor, Vice Principal at River East Collegiate and Principal at Princess Margaret and Miles MacDonnell. Following his retirement, he accepted a position with the Faculty of Education to administer the School Experience Office for several years and then the Faculty Weekend College. He was leader of the Clear Lake program, which prepared people for school leadership. In recognition of his work, he received the John M. Brown Award for his contribution to Teacher Education. In 1996, Joe went to St. Paul's College and for the next six years he co-ordinated the Certificate Program in Religious Education for teachers of catholic schools, the Certificate in the Catechetical Ministry Program for parish catechists in three different regions of the province (Brandon, Dauphin and Winnipeg) and the parish recruitment Program. For his dedicated work, he was named an Honorary Member of St. Paul's College. Of this, he was very proud. Besides teaching, he was an avid reader, loved to play cards and take trips to the casino. He also loved to travel, taking his family many times to New York and throughout the United States. Joe was soft-spoken and rarely raised his voice. He disliked formal gatherings and for this reason he adamantly requested a private family service. His wishes have been followed. Cremation has taken place and a private interment will follow. Thank you to the many home care providers over the years, the nurses and doctors at Access River East, and the Palliative Care Program for their dedicated service. Flowers gratefully declined. If one wishes, donations may be made to The Canadian Diabetes Foundation, The Humane Society or a charity of one's choice. "I have finished the race. I have kept the faith." Timothy 4:7 Funeral Arrangements in Care of: Wheeler Funeral Home, Cemetery and Crematorium. 1800 Day Street-204-224-1525 Please sign the book of memories at wheelerfuneral.com
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 20, 2016
Condolences & Memories (8 entries)
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Kelli and family: So sorry to hear about your loss. May your memories help you through this difficult time. With deepest sympathies. Kelly and family - Posted by: Kelly Banks (Burgess) (Friend of Kelli's) on: Feb 20, 2017
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Joe was one of my favourite principals, I appreciated the fact he treated staff with respect and recognized work well done. I fondly remember many hours discussing curling topics with Joe. I found his interest in the game interesting given his New York roots and never having played the game. - Posted by: William Biehl (Colleague) on: Feb 22, 2016
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It was my good fortune to be a small part in Joe's education universe as a student teacher in his class room (grade 3 level at that time), His quiet and sincere trust remains in my memory. Sincere condolences to Pat and his family on life's departure of this good soul. - Posted by: S. West (Former student teacher) on: Feb 22, 2016
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Always appreciated Mr. Degen's sincere interest in us as students in River East Collegiate. His way with us was fair, sensible, caring and professional. He was one of my favourite teachers for that reason. But he also helped me avoid a little trouble in my young life when he chose not to report me when I accidentally fired off a 22 blank I had brought to class with me in the middle of a quiet reading session in English Lit class. I'll never forget the look on his face when the small explosion shocked us all out of our quiet reading stupor! He reminded me that bringing firearms to class was illegal, pointed out the possible penalty but then and there "forgave" me for the mistake. And we all went back to work but I never forgot this kindness. I know he would have had a positive effect on all in his life. He will be forever loved and never forgotten. - Posted by: Reid Galbraith (Student) on: Feb 21, 2016
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It is with sadness that I read of Mr. Degen's passing. He was the kind of educator that left a life long impression on me. Mr. Degen was a wonderful and memorable Guidance councillor, teacher and neighbour. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. - Posted by: Kathryn Kopciuk (neighbour/ student) on: Feb 21, 2016
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Mr.Degen was my all time favourite teacher at River East Collegiate. He was kind, patient, professional, just a super man. He will be missed. Thoughts and prayers to his family. - Posted by: Terri (Denchuk) Wyatt (My high school English and all time favourite teacher) on: Feb 20, 2016
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I remember Mr. Degen as that soft-spoken teacher who was also a great listener. He was an outstanding teacher. I had great respect for him as a teacher and administrator. He was one of the people who made my student life at REC a memorable one. Thank you Sir! My sincere condolences to the family. - Posted by: Melanie Barnes (nee Lewis) (Student of Mr. Degen) on: Feb 20, 2016
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A number of years ago, Joe was a member of the Concordia Adult Day Club that I assisted in running. I'd often tease him by asking he to ask me to get him a 'glass a wadder' ~ his fabulous New York accent shining through ~ loved it! Thank you for your kind friendship,Joe! - Posted by: Jan Severloh (Friend) on: Feb 20, 2016