It is with great sadness that the family of Joseph Alexander Stang (husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, son and brother), passed away on Thursday, May 21, 2015, surrounded by his family, at the age of 88 years.

Joseph was born on February 11, 1927, near Macklin, SK, to Joseph and Clara (Gartner) Stang. He married Beatrice Schroh on June 16, 1956.

Joe was one of 16 siblings who grew up in a large German church and farming community. At the age of 20, Joe and 5 of his brothers left the prairies to travel north to work and prepare land in the Battle River area. He spent many winters away working in order to homestead land southeast of Manning, to purchase the Schroh family farm and to provide for his growing family. It was on that farm just south of Manning, that Joe and Bea raised their four children and instilled in them the values of family, faith and love. Joe farmed for over 60 years with his brother Frank, joined later by nephew Bill. Thousands of hours were spent on the field, discussing farm procedures in both German and English. He assisted in building the St. James Catholic Church, was involved in Church Council and the Knights of Columbus. He played on and coached many ball teams and especially enjoyed the competitiveness of a good game of Kaiser, Buck, Poker or Bunnock. Joe’s quiet times were spent gardening, reading, watching news and sports on TV, spending time with the grandchildren on the farm and passing on family history.

Joseph will be forever remembered and sadly missed by his wife and best friend of 58 years Beatrice, and their precious children: Donna (Pat) Brennan, Rob (Wanda) Stang, Laureen (Douglas) Morris, and Joseph (Tara) Stang; grandchildren: Erin, Shivon (DJ), Douglas, Joseph Cole, Tiare, Regan (Andrew), Jaimee, Reed, and Nalani; great-grandchidlren Sophie and James. Joseph will also be fondly remembered by numerous family members, extended family, and dear friends.

Joseph was predeceased by his father, mother, and many family members.

A Funeral Mass was celebrated in memory of Joseph on Tuesday, May 26, 2015 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Grande Prairie (10404 102 St.). Interment will follow at Lakeview Cemetery, Macklin, SK, at a later date.

Memorial donations in memory of Joseph may be made to QEII Hospital Foundation – ICU/Emergency (10409 98 St. Grande Prairie, AB T8V 2E8).

The family wishes to thank Oliver’s Funeral Home, the staff of the QEII Hospital, friends and family that travelled to attend the funeral and the gestures of kindness and love we have received from so many people.