March 31, 1946 to May 3, 2026

80 YEARS

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved father, Joseph “Joe” Waswick, on May 3, 2026, at Rocky Mountain Village in Fernie, BC, surrounded by family and friends. Joe had recently celebrated his 80th birthday.

Joe was a devoted father, brother, uncle, grandfather, and great-grandfather who will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He was predeceased by his parents, Joseph Wasiewicz, and Marjorie Elliott; his stepmother, Marge Shypitka; and his siblings, Russell Waswick, John David, Verna, and Doug. Joe is lovingly remembered by his children: Stefanie, Derik, and Dawn; his sisters, Pauline, and Susan; grandchildren, Gavin and Grayson Waswick, and cherished great-granddaughter, Odessa Waswick. He also leaves behind many cousins, nieces, and nephews, and shared a particularly close bond with his nephew, Rob Waswick and his niece, Sandy Waswick.

Born and raised in Fernie, BC, Joe grew up surrounded by family and lifelong friends. In 1963, he enlisted in the Army, serving for nearly two years before receiving an honorable discharge. In 1966, Joe met Mary, with whom he shared the joy of raising their three children, born in 1969, 1971, and 1976. In 1977 Joe helped to open one of Fernie’s most popular and iconic clothing stores, Ragtimer 77. In 1987, Joe opened the Quicksilver Arcade in Fernie, which quickly became a favorite gathering place for local youth. He became a familiar and adored figure among many high school students, affectionately known as “Fernie’s oldest teenager.”

Throughout his life, Joe worked in various roles with the Teamsters Union and the Operating Engineers Union. However, his greatest passion was the outdoors. In his younger years, he took to hang gliding, often seen soaring across the blue skies above Fernie with friends. Joe also had a deep love for snowmobiling, spending over 30 years exploring the mountains alongside many companions. He enjoyed countless hours hiking, especially in the Steeples near Norbury Lake, close to the home he lived in for 20 years—places where he found peace and connection to nature. He also had a fondness for vintage cars, particularly his beloved burgundy, 1957 Chevy. And of course, Joe appreciated the simple pleasure of a cold beer and good company. Whether at the Fernie Hotel or the Northern, he could often be found sharing stories and laughter with friends.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers at Rocky Mountain Village for the compassion and care they provided during Joe’s two-year stay. You became an important part of his life, and he loved you like family.

A special thank you also goes to Deb, Jen, and Anna Marie—his “girls”—who brought him joy through walks, ice cream outings, and the occasional beer. Your kindness meant so much to him. We also extend our sincere thanks to his dear friend Kate, whose care and support over several years meant the world to Joe and his family.

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 20, 2026, at the Elks Hall in Fernie, BC, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., with a eulogy to be shared at 3:30 p.m. All who knew Joe are warmly invited to attend.

Joe will be remembered for his warm spirit, his love of the outdoors, and the laughter he shared so freely. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him and the many lives he touched.

www.cherishedmemoriesfs.com