SZARA, Joe

1945 ~ 2026

Jozef “Joe” Szara, born in Poland on March 11, 1945, passed away on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at the age of 81 with family by his side.

He is survived by his daughter Marcia (Michael); grandsons Jordan, Jaysson, and Damian; and great-granddaughter Aaliyah, as well as nephew Janusz (Jola) and niece Krystyna. He was predeceased by his parents, Franciszka and Stanislaw, and brothers Bronislaw and Stanislaw.

Jozef arrived in Canada in the 1960s and spent the majority of his time in the Red Deer area, with a few years in Vancouver and Moose Jaw in between. As the owner of Joe’s Shoe Repair for several decades, Joe was a well-known figure downtown, especially for his directness, quick wit, and cribbage finesse. If you knew him, then you’d likely have played a game of crib against him—and lost some money in the process!

A spitfire in his youth, Joe retired in his 70s, sold his business, and spent his time travelling with his daughter and enjoying his role as Grandpa Joe. He travelled Europe by train, went skydiving, zoomed down the longest rail toboggan run in Switzerland, travelled multiple times to Costa Rica, and spent time exploring all parts of Poland. He had a life well lived and will be deeply missed.

Cremation services were provided by Parkland Funeral Home, and interment will be in Goraj, Lubelskie, Poland, on Sunday, May 17, 2026.

Words of support, condolences, memories, interesting stories, and photos may be shared and viewed at www.parklandfuneralhome.com or emailed to jozef.szara@gmail.com

Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium (Red Deer)

ONLY LOCALLY FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED FUNERAL HOME/CREMATORIUM

IN THE CITY OF RED DEER

“Caring Community Compassion Since 1999”

6287 – 67A Street (Taylor Drive), Red Deer. 403.340.4040.

• Date : 2026-04-07
• Location : Parkland Funeral Home (Red Deer) www.parklandfuneralhome.com 403.340.4040