It is with heavy hearts that the family of Joe Melville Irvine announce his passing at the Emo Health Centre on August 15, 2025, with his wife by his side.
Joe was born on November 17, 1956 to Fred and Edith Irvine and grew up on the family farm north of Emo.
Joe always had a love for woodworking and joined the Carpenter’s Local Union 1669 right out of high school in 1974. He was still a member at the time of his passing.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife of just under 48 years Maxine (Teeple); mother Edith Irvine; sister Kathy (Will) Derksen; brother Keith (Wendy) Irvine; and sister-in-law Sheri Helseth; along with numerous brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. He was predeceased by his father Fred Irvine and brother Jack.
When Joe wasn’t working heavy construction, you could find him in his workshop building anything from furniture, kitchen cabinets, wooden toys or bird feeders and houses and the last years making chess sets and tables.
His happy place was our cabin on Lake of the Woods. After retirement, he spent as much time as possible there. You would find Joe fishing off the rock with his dog and great-nephews or working in his small workshop. He made many great friends and enjoyed their company at the lake.
As per Joe’s wishes, there will be no service and the burial will take place at a later date.
Donations can be made to the New Cardiac Surgery Unit at Thunder Bay Regional Health Centre or the Emo Hospital Auxiliary c/o Northridge Funeral Home Ltd, Box 89, Emo, Ontario P0W 1E0.
A special thank you to Dr. Meyers and staff at the Emo Hospital for their care and support. Also, thank you to Jason and staff at Northridge Funeral Home. And thank you to friends and family for all the calls, texts, visits and food.
Arrangements entrusted to Northridge Funeral Home Ltd., Emo, Ontario.
