MORRISSEY, Joe

1942 ~ 2026

Mr. Joseph Phillip Peter Morrissey of Didsbury, Alberta, formerly of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, passed away at the Didsbury District Health Services Centre on Thursday, April 1, 2026 at the age of 83 years. Joseph was born in Kingston, Ontario, and began his early career serving in the military with the Royal Canadian Engineers where he served in the Congo on a peacekeeping mission with the Canadian military. It was during his time in the army that he met the love of his life, Marian. From the moment he laid eyes on her, Joe knew that she was the one he would marry. Though they were quite different in many ways, their connection was immediate and profound. Their love for one another was deep and unwavering, carrying them through more than 62 years of marriage and a lifetime of shared experiences, devotion, and partnership. Following his service, Joe pursued a career as an audio/visual producer, eventually founding his own company, Slide Art Productions. His creativity and entrepreneurial spirit marked a successful professional life. Joe discovered a passion for track and field when his son, Michael, became involved in the sport. What began as support for his son quickly grew into a lifelong commitment. He coached both the Riversdale Track Club and the Saskatoon Track Club in Saskatoon, dedicating countless hours to mentoring athletes. His involvement extended beyond coaching, as he served on the board for the Saskatchewan Provincial Board for Athletics and Athletics Canada. He was also proud to be a coach for the Saskatchewan Special Olympics in Western Canada. In all of his endeavors with the sport, he made a meaningful impact on many young lives. In recognition of his dedication and volunteerism, Joe was awarded the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal and the Saskatchewan Sports Award. He was known for his strong sense of community and his willingness to give his time and energy to others. Joe was best known for his larger-than-life personality and the joy he brought to those around him. He was an incredible storyteller, able to captivate a room with his voice, humour, and vivid recollections. Always ready with a quick quip or well-timed joke, Joe had a way of making people laugh and feel at ease. Life was never boring in his presence, and his energy and spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Joe will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 62 years, Marian Morrissey of Didsbury; his son, Michael Morrissey of Calgary; his daughter, Jennifer Bergfeldt (Troy) of Calgary; his two grandsons, Christian Wachs of Saskatoon and Noah Bergfeldt of Calgary; his sister, Darlene Ross-Haynes (Stanley) of Ottawa. He was predeceased by his parents, Albert Gagnon and Mildred Hamelin-Gagnon.

A Memorial Service was held at Knox United Church, 1406 – 19 Avenue, Didsbury, Alberta on Thursday, April 9, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. with The Reverend Lynn McKinnon, officiating followed by a light lunch. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.heartlandfuneralservices.com. Arrangements in care of Heartland Funeral Services (Didsbury), 1413 – 21 Avenue, Didsbury, Alberta 403.335.4773.

• Date : 2026-04-11
• Location : (Didsbury) LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED (Red Deer/Blackfalds/Eckville) www.ParklandFuneralHome.com & (Innisfail/Olds/Didsbury/Sundre) www.HeartlandFuneralServices.com