A well known resident and respected educator, Joseph Frattura died at his home on Nov. 25, 2011. He was born in Prescott, Ontario on Oct. 28, 1914, the son of Joseph and Lena (nee Piche). After high school graduation in Prescott, Joe attended Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario from 1938-40. Like many young men of his era, Joe’s education was interrupted by military service and he enlisted in 1942. Because of his education he worked in a teaching capacity and after several courses in Ontario, Nova Scotia and Manitoba he served as an Instructor in Small Arms and Artillery until 1945. Upon his honorable discharge from the Canadian Armed Forces, Joe returned to Queen’s University and graduated in 1948. He then attended the Ontario College of Education where he majored in English and Music. He married Helen (nee Sedgwick) in 1949 and together they moved to Creston BC, where Joe taught at the secondary school. They raised their family there until 1960 when they made the decision to move to Salmon Arm. In Salmon Arm Joe and Helen found their permanent place of residence and Joe began his teaching career at the Salmon Arm Secondary and at Okanagan College. During his career Joe was involved in choral music and many of his choirs were successful entrants into music festivals. He retired from active teaching in 1975 but for the remaining 36 years, Joe continued a life of curiosity and involvement. He often said, “I was a student my whole life.” He had a love of art, the ballet and music, was up to date on any political situation and was intrigued by the Internet age. He lived independently in his own home taking care of all his own needs. He enjoyed socialization and would often meet children and grand children of former students whom he would amazingly remember and call by name. He was bright and alert and interested in all aspects of life right up until the moment of his passing. He was a man of culture and acceptance and often expressed his thankfulness at the fullness of his life. He was predeceased by his wife Helen in 1998 after 49 years of marriage. Joe and Helen raised a family of four: he is survived by two sons, Rennie (Deirdre), Robin (Rose and grandchildren Tony and Melissa), by his daughter Lorena and grandson Shae. Joe was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church for 51 years. A prayer service will be held from the chapel of Bowers Funeral Home on Wednesday, November 30th at 5:00 pm. Mass of Christian burial will follow at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Thursday morning at 10:00 am, with Father George LaGrange celebrant. Interment will follow next to his wife in the Mount Ida Cemetery. If so desired, memorial contributions in memory of Joe may be made to the charity of your choice.
Online condolences can be sent through Joe’s obituary at www.bowersfuneralservice.com
Arrangements are in the care of Bowers Funeral Home, Salmon Arm.