Obituary: Byron John Joseph

Tselkwilem – t - Kama   Siyam

'Baloo,' 'Brindy,' 'Papa,' 'Papa Bear'

Sunrise: April 15, 1953 – Sunset: April 2, 2023.

It is with great sadness we advise of the passing of our dear Elder Chief Byron John Joseph.

Byron passed surrounded by family at Vancouver General Hospital on April 2, 2023.

Byron was born to his late parents, Stanley Joseph and Caroline (nee: Trimble) Joseph, on April 15, 1953, at St. Paul's Hospital.

He grew up on Eslha7án̓ (Mission IR no. 1), Deep Cove (Burrard), and Georgia, U.S.

Byron attended Turner Elementary, St. Paul's Day School, and Carson Graham Secondary School.

Byron married his sweetie Brenda on Sept. 24, 1982.

They raised their children on X̱wemelch'stn (Capilano IR no. 5).

Byron's family shared him with various Indigenous sports, healing, and political organizations for decades. He spent his early working years at the golf course, Capilano RV park, and doing carpentry.

His love for helping others and dedication to his people drew him to successfully run for Squamish Nation council.

He served from 1982 to 2017 — 36 years! He was the longest-standing member with the Indian Residential School Survivors Society (IRSSS) board for over 25 years.

Byron was a proud Indigenous man and loved to attend Powwows, Spiritual & Cultural Work, Canoe Journey, Longhouse, and especially Slahal games.

Byron drew his strength from his ancestors.

He was empathetic, kind, loving, intelligent and generous with his teachings.

He enjoyed reading, being in nature, beading, meditation, drumming, singing, playing his harmonica, and listening to the blues.

He enjoyed playing and coaching: basketball, soccer, softball, and lacrosse. He coached all his kids through their years in lacrosse, North Shore Indians and Team BC.

Byron will best be remembered for his unwavering positivity, unconditional love, and hearty laugh.

He is survived by his loving wife Brenda Joseph(nee: Douglas), children Sandra Lafontaine(Jaret), Kono Douglas (Tracy), Breanna Joseph(Michael), Bianca Cameron(Bronson), Kaiya Williams(Wilson); grandchildren Lillian George, Travis George Jr., Trevor Billy, Kono Douglas Jr., Brendan Douglas(Michelle), Kyoni Mercier(Maverick), Kaikanim Mercier, Nakoa Mercier, Jacob Holmes, Wilaiya Williams, Treleen Williams, Pearl Williams; great-grandchildren Tyson Douglas, Kianna Douglas; siblings Deanna George, Vernon Joseph Sr., Caroline  Joseph, Barbara Daniel, Soceye Baker and many loving relatives and dear friends.

A service was held at the Chief Joe Mathias Centre on Thursday, April 6, 2023.

Online condolences can be found at www.dignitymemorial.ca.

Viewing of the Livestream available.