Joseph Altenburg, age 86,of Stratford passed away peacefully at the Stratford General Hospital on June 12,2015.One of thirteen boys he was born in Sneek, Holland, son of the late Seakele and Jikke Altenburg. Loving and devoted husband for 60 years of Julie (Koomen),family was at the centre of his life. Loving father of John (Donene), Jikky Middleton (Mike Armstrong),Gerry (Nancy),Paul (Barb),Jeff (Michaela).Opa of Michael, Sarah, Kelly Bell, Casey Middleton, Thys Armstrong, Marijke Brown (Matt),Jacob, Skye (Ryan Gibson), Hailey, Koeman, Charles, Morgan, Willem and Janek. Great Opa of Hanna, Kiley and Adelaide, Dear brother of Nico (Annie) and Tony. Also survived by sisters-in-laws Annie Koomen, Margaret Basch and Riena Kaptyn (Simon).Besides his parents Joe was predeceased by siblings Ian, Jopie, Andries, Piet, Thijs, Wijbe, Theo, Koos, Karel and Gerard. Joe was a Gold/Silversmith before coming to Canada. Once here he worked in Engineering at Fischer Bearings until his retirement in 1991.He was a faithful member of Immaculate Conception Parish, Stratford. Joe was a very talented musician, artist, puzzler, had a green thumb and a true love for the outdoors. His harmonica skills are legendary. Joe played all-star soccer for Fischer Bearings for many years…including the elite years which culminated in the winning of the Ontario Cup. He was a tireless advocate and participant in the growth of Stratford Youth Soccer.
Friends and relatives may call at the W.G. Young Funeral Home,430 Huron Street, Stratford on Wednesday June 17,from 7-9 pm. The funeral Mass will be celebrated at Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church,50 Well Street, Stratford on Thursday at 11 am. Father Bester-Celebrant. Followed immediately by lunch in the church parish hall in celebration of Joe’s life. As expressions of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to Stratford Youth Soccer or The Alzheimer Society through the funeral home. 519-271-7411 www.wgyoungfuneralhome.com
