Joseph "Joe" Richard Tuza

   It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Joseph Tuza on March 5, 2022 at the age of 83 years.

   Joe was born on June 21, 1938 in Budapest, Hungary to Ilona and Lagos Tuza, he was one of five siblings raised in a home filled with love.  Joe immigrated to Canada in 1956 to begin a new life; and that he did! He worked his way to Pincher Creek, AB where he met a beautiful young lady, Patricia McLeod and fell in love; not only with her but with her family. And so began his life’s journey of being a husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather.

   Joe spent many years as an underground miner leading him to one of his greatest passions, the Underground Mine Rescue Team. After Patricia passed and the underground mine shut down, Joe achieved his millwright ticket and continued to work in the mining industry until the mine closed. This led Joe to finding work closer to home at the Pass Powderkeg Ski Hill.

   Pat and Joe raised four children. He spent countless hours teaching and coaching his children soccer and hockey. Fly fishing was a favourite past time which he shared with both of his sons. Camping and the great outdoors was a family ritual enjoyed by all.  Joe’s love of music and dancing was infectious and the ladies lined up for a twirl around the dance floor. Joe’s life was well-lived and he will be forever remembered with love and respect.

   Left to mourn his passing and celebrate his life are his children, Rick (Sandi) Tuza, Lisa Tuza (John VanderLinden), Roberta Tuza and Michael Tuza; his grandchildren, Cole (Rosie) Tuza, Jack Tuza, Patricia VanderLinden, John R. VanderLinden, Rory VanderLinden, Alison Pitt (Justin) and Victoria Pitt (Logan); his great grandchildren, Elizabeth, Mariah, Isaac, Curtis, Lance and Kody; his brother-in-law, Bill (Tillie) McLeod; sister-in-law, Joyce McLeod; as well as many nieces, nephews and countless friends.

   He was predeceased by his parents, Ilona and Lagos Tuza; all four of his siblings; and his wife, Patricia Tuza.

  A private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date for family and close friends.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations will be gratefully accepted by Covenant Health, St. Michael’s Health Centre (1400 – 9 Ave. S., Lethbridge, AB T1J 4V5).  Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca).

Fantin’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with the arrangements. (403) 562-8555

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