elevated v4LNF December 18, 1967 ~ September 9, 2025

elevated v4LNF Visitation
Sunday, September 14, 2025 from 1:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Holy Cross Catholic Funeral Home
211 Langstaff Road East, Thornhill, Ontario, L3T 3Z6

elevated v4LNF Funeral Mass
Monday, September 15, 2025 at 10:30 a.m.
Chapel of St. Joseph at Holy Cross Catholic Funeral Home
211 Langstaff Road East, Thornhill, Ontario, L3T 3Z6

elevated v4LNF Interment
Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery

elevated v4LNF Obituary
Born on December 18, 1967, in São Miguel, Açores, Joe was the beloved son of the late Maria Linhares De Sousa and Manuel De Sousa.

elevated v4LNF Joe will be forever remembered as the devoted father of his three children, Melissa (Ray), Jennifer, and Justin (Kaitlyn), and loving partner of Ana whom he cherished deeply. He was a dear brother to Cindy (Edward), Maria (Joe), and Mike (Sandy), and a treasured uncle to Corey, Lucas, Jacob, Andrew, and Allen.

elevated v4LNF Joe was a strong-willed and hardworking man. He began his career in roofing and construction at a young age alongside his father, then worked as a restaurant manager for Swiss Chalet, and later became a respected self-employed contractor who took great pride in his work. Beyond his profession, Joe’s greatest joy was caring for his family and friends. He also had a true passion for cooking, often showing his love by preparing meals for anyone he invited to his home. Known for his generous spirit, quick wit, and infectious sense of humor, Joe had a special gift for making others smile and creating lasting memories. Joe leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and hard work. His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

elevated v4LNF In his personal life, Joe found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved fishing, playing cards, and going for long drives. Some of the most cherished memories his family holds are of late-night drives through the city of Toronto, stopping together for midnight snacks—moments filled with laughter, warmth, and love. Joe was always the jokester, with a gift for bringing smiles to everyone around him.

elevated v4LNF In 2024, Joe was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer. Despite the difficult battle he faced, he remained courageous and positive, always believing he would overcome his suffering. His strength, resilience, and optimism were an inspiration to all who knew him.

elevated v4LNF Joe’s life was taken far too soon. He will be deeply missed, especially in the moments yet to come. Though he will not be here to witness his children marry, walk his daughters down the aisle, or to meet future grandchildren, his family takes comfort in knowing he will watch over them, guiding them and celebrating every milestone from above. His spirit will remain forever present in their hearts.

elevated v4LNF As we say goodbye, we also take comfort in knowing that Joe has been reunited with his beloved husky and faithful companion, Maya, who we know was patiently waiting to greet him at the golden gates of heaven. May Joe rest peacefully, surrounded by eternal love and light.

elevated v4LNF Your thoughts and kindness are truly appreciated during this time of sorrow.

elevated v4LNF If desired, donations can be made to the Lung Association and/or for those who wish to offer support, a GoFundMe page has been set up to help Joe’s children with funeral expenses:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/joe-de-sousa.

elevated v4LNF