It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved “Dr. Joe”.  In his 95th year, he died peacefully at home, surrounded by family on April 10th, 2017. Predeceased by his dear parents Rev. Aaron and Sime. Devoted husband of Pepi, treasured father and father-in-law of David and Margot, Sara and Ian Zagdanski, Aaron and Felicia, Amy and Luis Strauch.  Cherished and proud grandfather of Jordy, Becky and Michael Zagdanski, Sydney, J.J., Ben, Jacob, Sam & Alex Greenberg, Adam & Robbie Strauch. Dear brother and brother-in-law of Dave & Della, Mort, the late Sarah, Rose & Ben and Dorothy.  The first in his family to be born in Canada, Dr. Joe was proud to grow up on Major Street. After serving in the RCAF, he graduated from U of T medicine, class of 5T2, and so began a storied career. Known for his personal care and dedication, Dr. Joe answered his own phones, had weekend line-ups at the cottage for allergy shots and care and was famous for his house calls. It was during one of those visits that he met Pepi, the love of his life, with whom he shared almost 59 years of marriage and who was an unending source of love and support.  Beyond his general practice, Dr. Joe made a name for himself in the boxing world. He was in the corner with George Chuvalo, Clyde Gray & others for seven world championship fights and in 1981, was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame. Dr. Joe was in everyone’s corner.  He cared for the whole person through all stages of life with dignity, compassion and respect. He delivered over 3,000 babies and played a unique role in the lives of so many as doctor, mentor and friend.   He lived a long and meaningful life and was an inspiration to a generation of students, patients and doctors.  He was a patriarch who led a life that has become legend and left a legacy that is ours to honour and fulfil. Our deepest gratitude to Joy, Nevi, Beverly and Josie whose loving care in recent years allowed him to live with fun, purpose and dignity.
Funeral services will be held at Holy Blossom Temple, 1950 Bathurst Street, on Friday, April 14, 2017 at 12:00 p.m. Interment at Roselawn Avenue Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to Dr. Joe’s cherished Congregation Shaarei Tzedec at (shaareitzedec.org (647) 557-6398)  For shiva details, please visit steelesmemorialchapel.com.