- Brandon Sun Passages
- All Titles
Search:
Notices are posted by 10 am Monday through Saturday


JOZEF (JOE) ZMAVC
Born: Jan 17, 1940
Date of Passing: Dec 28, 2022
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or Memory
JOZEF (JOE) ZMAVC
January 17, 1940 - December 28, 2022
It is with heavy hearts we announce the sudden passing of Jozef "Joe" Zmavc on Wednesday, December 28, 2022, at 82 years of age.
Joe leaves to mourn his beloved wife Vida of 61 years; his children, Robert (Florette), Andrej, Natalija (Alan); granddaughters, Stephanie (Connor), Katrina, and Rori; siblings, Franc, Neza, Maria ("Mica"); cousins, nieces, and nephews in Slovenija, British Columbia, and Ontario. He was predeceased by his parents Jozef and Jozefa, his sister Olga, and his brother Rudi.
Joe was born in Ljubno, Slovenija on January 17, 1940. He later obtained his Master/Meister certification in carpentry and cabinet making and graduated with journeyman's papers in 1957. He volunteered with the local alpine rescue team and enjoyed ski jumping, which he also continued across Canada.
In 1958, he immigrated to Canada where he recertified as a carpenter and first worked in a furniture factory, then on the Grand Rapids Hydro Generating Station and next with Acme Sash & Door where he crafted windows and doors. In 1964, he started up as a general contractor specializing in custom woodwork, which he continued until his retirement. Joe built many custom homes and other structures across southern Manitoba, the Interlake, and the Lake of the Woods. His woodwork can be found in many places, including churches, museums, and for many customers that wanted custom-designed, specialized woodworking.
He was an incredibly hard-working person with little leisure. But, in addition to his strong work ethic, Joe also carried an equally strong set of family values. Any time away from work was spent on ski trips with his family or hunting, fishing, and boating with family and friends. He loved the outdoors and went on many excursions with his friends Bill, Tony, Joe, and Bob - trips that could take months to plan. Anyone who knew him enjoyed his recounting of these adventures and experiences.
After his retirement, he enjoyed the outdoors with his son Andrej and friend Richard. He had a deep respect for all animals, and they were drawn to him. He enjoyed picking mushrooms with his friend Jerry and berries with his wife Vida and many other friends. Joe also enjoyed his outings with their neighbours and friends from Manitoba. He volunteered with various organizations, including 16 years with the Citizens on Patrol Program (COPP) in St. Andrews. Joe's insightfulness and wisdom was often a guide to many people, not just family.
The family would like to thank the emergency response units that assisted in his final hours, including the EMS, St. Andrews Fire Department, the local RCMP, and District First Call. They would also like to thank the staff at the Heart Failure Clinic for their excellent medical care and diagnostic expertise.
A celebration of his life will take place on Thursday, January 5, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. at Glen Eden Funeral Home & Cemetery, 4477 Main Street, West St. Paul. Father Diosdado Parrenas will be officiating the service.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Joe's name may be made to the Heart Failure Clinic, Y3014 - 409 Taché Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R2H 2A6.
Pocivaj v miru dragi Ata.
Rest in peace dear Ata.
Family and friends may sign a
Book of Condolence at www.glenedenmemorial.ca
Glen Eden Funeral Home
204-338-7111
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 03, 2023
Condolences & Memories (3 entries)
-
In some ways Joe always seemed tough as nails. On the job he sometimes seemed to be more machine than man: It was incredible what he could endure. But along with that he always had the ability to marvel at the world around him and bring an artist's vision to his work. - Posted by: Neil (Family friend) on: Jan 07, 2023
-
My first job was with Zmavc Builders from the age of 15 to 18, before I got work in engineering. Joe (Mr. Zmavc to me…), Robert and Andrej took a chance on me as I could barely stand on a roof or swing a hammer when I started. When I finished my work with Joe, I gained so many skills in framing, concrete, cabinetry, roofing, and others that have been so valuable to this very day. I’m so thankful to have had the opportunity to work with the Mr. Zmavc and observe his work ethic. My start with building homes ultimately strengthened my interest in engineering, which has led to a great career and life for my family. In some ways, my life would not be the same without the chance that Joe, Robert and Andrej took on me so I’ll be forever grateful. - Posted by: Michael Van Helden (Former employee) on: Jan 03, 2023
-
Please accept our heartfelt condolences for your great loss. Joe was a good friend and who was very generous with his time whenever needed. I worked with Joe in the building of our first home and cottage. In addition, Joe's exceptional woodwork and carpentry skills can be seen in Tarrow House today. Joe will be deeply missed by his friends and neighbors. - Posted by: Andy and Gloria Chizick (Friends) on: Jan 03, 2023
Email Alerts
Sign up for free email alerts of new obituaries for specific people, towns & more.