Joseph Romas – June 12, 1930 – October 21, 2011

Obituaries — 08 November 2011

It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of Joseph (Joe) Romas. Joe was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba to Elk (Alex) and Arenia (Irene) Romas.

Joe is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Margaret; sons, Jim (Helen) of Dryden, Don (Kim) of Dryden, Gord (Sheila) of Dryden, Gary (Christine) of Dryden, Roger (Robin) of Dryden, and daughter Pat (Gord) Hyatt of Devlin, Ontario; 12 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren and sister, Anne Kuchma of Sudbury.

Joe was predeceased by his mother and father, his brothers Bill and John, and sisters Olga, Susan and Mary.

Joe spent his early years living in Ignace where he attended grade school. He had moved from Hazelridge with his father, Alex, as his dad’s job on the railroad required him to move to Ignace. Joe’s mom and siblings stayed to work the farm, joining them at a later date.

Joe moved to Winnipeg and worked for Eaton’s where he met and married his wife, Margaret. They moved back to Ignace, as work was available with the railroad. The family moved to Dryden in 1961 due to downsizing of the Ignace rail yard. Joe worked his way up to Yard Foreman and retired early due to an injury in 1971.

Joe, better known as Papa, enjoyed his life with his family. He especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and later with his great grandchildren. He was happiest when his family was able to spend time together. During these times he would often share stories about the “Old” days spent on the railroad, reminiscing about a shore lunch, a hunting trip, gathering wood (with his famous bologna bucket), fishing or just spending time at their camp. Often his stories would start with “I remember” as he went on to embellish an old fishing or hunting story.

Visitation was held on Wednesday, October 26, 2011 from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Dryden Community Funeral Home.

A funeral service was held at the First United Church at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, October 27, 2011. Interment followed in the Dryden Cemetery.

If friends so desire, donations may be made to the Dryden Regional Health Center, Equipment Fund.

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