Gaston Andre Joseph

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Gaston André Joseph at home, surrounded by his loving family, at the age of 94.

Born on February 26, 1930, in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, Gaston was the fifth of seven children (Aldric, Yvonne, Kelvin, Cyril, Gaston, Ela and Nira). His father, Arthur Joseph, was a successful tailor and maker of bespoke garments on Fredrick Street, and his mother, Camilla, was a dedicated homemaker.

As a child in the Belmont area near the famous Eastern Dry River, Gaston formed lifelong friendships playing games and sports like cricket and football. He attended high school at St. Mary’s College, graduating with top honors in March 1948. He trained in teaching, business education and social work before briefly working in the Trinidadian civil service.

In 1954, Gaston moved to Canada to study at United College (now the University of Winnipeg) and later at the University of Saskatchewan, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts (Geology) and a Bachelor of Geological Engineering. He took a year off during his studies to obtain a diploma in surveying at the Alberta Institute of Technology. It was during this time that he met and fell in love with Heather Cassel, whom he married in 1959. Their sons, David and Cyril, were born in Saskatoon.

Gaston’s career in geology took him to remote locations across Canada, such as the North West Territories with the Geological Survey of Canada. However, his desire to be closer to his family led him to a fulfilling role as the first Principal of Keewatin Community College in The Pas, Manitoba, in 1966. There, he built a home and welcomed two more children, Carlyle and Angela. In 1972, Gaston's success as Principal at Keewatin prompted a move to Winnipeg, where he became Principal of Extension and Community Services at Red River College. Despite a demanding job, he earned a degree in Public Administration while working full-time. His dedication to education saw him take on international roles, including contracts with the Canadian International Development Agency in Zambia, followed by work in Malawi, where he made lasting contributions to educational development.

Returning to Winnipeg in 1984, Gaston continued his work at Red River College until his retirement in 1994. His beloved wife, Heather, passed away in 2002 after 43 years of marriage.

Gaston had a lifetime love of tinkering with cars, gardening, home repair, and Calypso music. His adventurous spirit led him to explore over 30 countries with his family, including embarking on long road trips across North America, Europe, and Africa. His love of soccer led him to coach the St. James
Assiniboia junior boys’ team, winning the championship two years in a row in 1973 and 1974.

He maintained close ties with his childhood friends, several of whom settled in Winnipeg with him, as well as his brothers and sisters. Known for his patience, tact, and diplomacy, he helped many people throughout his life and was deeply respected at work.

Gaston is survived by his four children Cyril (Felicia), David (Shelly), Carlyle, and Angela, as well as his grandchildren Tyrone, Spencer, Nicole, and Kai, and numerous nephews and nieces who live all over the world. Gaston’s life exemplified the Joseph family values of perseverance and dedication. His legacy lives on in his children, grandchildren, and extended family.

We would like to express our deepest gratitude to all the caregivers, friends, and family who supported Gaston during his final days. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a charity of your choice in his memory.

He will be deeply missed and remembered for his devotion to family, friends, education, and his unwavering work ethic.

Rest in peace, we love you Dad.