JOE RACA

1939 - 2005

Mr. Joseph "Joe" Paulo Raca, beloved husband of Mrs. Erica Raca of Taber, passed away on Monday, October 3, 2005 at the age of 66 years.
Joe was born to Paolo and Teresa Raca in Castelvenere, Trieste, Italy on June 8, 1939 where he also received his schooling. He came to Canada in 1957 along with his sister Olivia. In 1959, he moved to Dawson City, Yukon. He married Erica Vanneste December 30, 1961 and together they made their home in Dawson City, Yukon where he worked with YCGC Gold Dredging. In 1966  they returned to Taber where he was employed by the Taber Irrigation District until his retirement in 1988. After this time, he continued working with his Grader and Gradall Service. Joe had an overwhelming love and compassion for all animals. Always close by his side was his faithful companion, his dog Buddy.
Besides his loving wife Erica, Joe is survived by his son John (Rhonda Wall) Raca and Rhonda's children Naomi and Joel; his daughter Rita (Wayne) Goodrich and their children Derrick and Nicholas; his sisters Maria (Nel) Landry of Maine, United States, Olivia (Emilio) Vardabasso of Vernon, British Columbia, Graziella (Victorio) Donofrio of Italy; his father-in-law Albert Vanneste of Taber and by numerous nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents Paolo and Teresa Raca and by his mother-in-law Paula Vanneste.
Relatives and friends are invited to Prayers at the Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Thursday, October 6, 2005 at 7:00 P.M.
The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Augustine's Catholic Church, 5009 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Friday, October 7, 2005 at 2:00 P.M. with Reverend Mariusz Sztuk SDS, Celebrant. Interment to follow at the Taber Memorial Garden.