JOSEPH MCQUABBIE MEMORIAL
IN LOVING MEMORY
We invite you to share your memories and condolences in honour of Joseph McQuabbie, a compassionate leader whose wisdom and guidance helped to begin the building of a bridge between Indigenous peoples and settlers, so that we could all learn and grow together for the betterment of all communities on Turtle Island.
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Gloria SavoieCentennial CollegeJoseph Mcquabbie was a wonderful man so kind and so caring and thoughtful and always helping Indigenous people. He was my employment counsellor years ago. Rest In Peace you will be missed all our love to the Mcquabbie family.
Bruce WilliamsBruce Williams, Director, Marketing and CommunicationsJoseph was such a pleasure to work with, and he really opened my eyes to the numerous issues we, as settlers, have to face up to in our relationship with Indigenous communities.
Roselyn Sagar-LalSr Development Officer, Major GiftsMy deepest and sincerest condolences to the family of Joseph during this very sad time. I hope that your cherished memories help you get through your loss. With sympathy, Roselyn.
Seán (waazakone mashkiki) KinsellaDirector, The Eighth Firemiyo-pimipociwim nîtotêm. The legacy and work that you have put in over the last decade here at Centennial will not be forgotten and will be held tight always. I will miss your sense of humour, and the ways you said exactly what needed to and how strongly you advocated for our people. I will miss you....
Sandra McEachranLibrary TechnicianI was shocked and very sad to learn of Joseph's passing. I met him a few years ago when I was learning about Indigenous Culture. He came and taught us much. The thing I remember most from his teaching was "ask us what we want, do not tell us what you think we want", in reference to Truth and Reconciliation. For me that is a very profound statement and makes so much sense. Joseph was a very unique individual. Whilst I have not seen him or interacted with him since that teaching moment, I will always remember Joseph with fondness. My heartfelt sympathies to Joseph's family and friends at this difficult time. I hope that knowing the kind of impact Joseph had on others will help your family....
Milan JelenicFacultyA real loss. I heard Joseph present once, his view on improving Indigenous lives was the most perfect I’ve ever heard. My sincerest condolences to his family and friends. Milan
Christine DeeringTechnical Specialist at Centennial CollegeI hope Joseph knew how much respect and love he had earned from us. My daughter was trying to foster an idea to work with the Indigenous communities and he gave her many insights and contacts to take forward, when no one else was willing to have a sit down or a discussion. He opened our eyes fully, and we can NEVER forget him for that alone. Of course there was more, I had the pleasure of working with Jospeh with his IT equipment on many occasions and it would always be a journey of chatting and stories that ended in laughter. Our hearts go out to Joseph's family at this very difficult time. But want to send reassurance that he will be remembered by us, fondly and often!...
Judy HermannFacultyMy heartfelt condolences to Joseph's family and friends. I did not know Joseph personally, but heard him speak often and was always moved by his words, his gentle spirit and his love of his people. I was truly saddened to hear of his passing. May you find peace and comfort in knowing he touched many lives and many share in your grief....
Hermia AnthonyFacultyYou have joined the ancestors. There must have been a great welcoming celebration. We shall all miss you but we know you are serving a higher purpose.
Laura WoodDirector, Student Community and EngagementWhile I didn't know Joseph very well, he was always very kind, thoughtful and supportive of the work and projects our team was exploring with Indigenous communities across Canada. I shall miss his insights. My thoughts are with Joseph's family at this difficult time....
Joe DimariaManager at Centennial CollegeWhat a man, a colleague and most of all a friend. We shared more than a name. humour, we many times joked with each other. even after his latest leg surgery, joseph came in for a visit, instead of us feeling awkward, he had has us crying with laughter. made it so much easier to talk to him. I'm sure in his new spiritual world/heaven , he has all the other spirits laughing right now. the next time you hear thunder , it's just joe making the other spirits rolling in laughter. one last joke between us buddy, but we will keep it to ourselves....
Nita SainiCo-op Education AdvisorI am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Joseph McQuabbie. Over the years, I am one of the countless people who had the honour of being the recipient of Joseph's teachings, compassion, wisdom and humour. There are no words to describe his impact. It was clear how much love and passion Joseph brought to Centennial - this was not simply 'work', but a deeply felt commitment to relationship building and supporting Indigenous communities inside and outside the College. My sincerest condolences to all of Joseph's friends, family and relations....
Annamaria KougiasFacultyI did not know Joseph well but I am sad to hear of his passing and send my condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and community members. I am so grateful to have heard his teachings on this year's Orange Shirt Day during which he shared with us his health condition of which he said he was not afraid. A true inspiration and teacher....
Justin Paolo Lim Vice president of the Centennial College Alumni Association Board of DirectorsI’m behalf of the Lim family, I would like to send our sincere condolences.
Sheila ChaiTalent Acquisition ConsultantMy heart is heavy to hear this news. Joseph played such a critical part in bridging the two-worlds, he will be immensely missed and remembered. Peace and comfort to all who are dear to him.
Jennifer WoodillChair, Community Service DepartmentI am saddened to hear of the passing of Joseph McQuabbie, and I send my condolences to his family. Joseph was a leader and teacher, challenging all of us to confront colonialism and work towards reconciliation. His passing is a great loss for Centennial College....
Sasha ChernomurovaLearning StrategistLike so many others, Joseph touched my life through his deep knowledge, commitment to positive change and humble, strong leadership. I had the pleasure of learning from Joseph on a few occasions and I will always remember the energy that Joseph brought with him. In a room, you could feel his presence through confidence, kindness, warmth, determination and humour. Yet, he always left room for others, learning and leading at the same time. It is a big, big loss. Deepest condolences to all those closest to Joseph. Yet, I hope that the learning, change and action that Joseph inspired will continue at its own time....
Nancy JohnsonDirector, Human ResourcesMay there be a sacred fire burning as you journey home. May the strength you shared be felt by all who are grieving your loss. Rest well Joseph-ba.
Rosanna Cavallaro]AVP Marketing CommunicationsI am deeply saddened to hear of Joseph’s passing. Joseph was an incredible gift to this world, and to Centennial College. I had the privilege of working with him when he introduced us to the first Elder who visited Centennial, as we began to develop trust and relations with Indigenous communities. It was an honour to have been guided by his knowledge. His presence always filled a room with wisdom and calm reflection. Safe journey Joseph, as you leave Mother Earth and enter your Spirit World. My sincerest condolences to the entire Centennial College community and all who loved him....
Lori RansomReconciliation and Indigenous Justice Animator, United Church of CanadaMy sincere condolences to Joseph’s family, friends, and colleagues. Though I did not know him well, as a recent appointee to the Aboriginal Education Council, I quickly came to appreciate Joseph’s gifts as a traditional teacher and am deeply cognizant of his profound contributions to Centennial College. May the Creator comfort and uphold all who mourn his loss....
Srishta ChopraLearning Strategist - Math SpecialistAs I remember Joseph today, one of the memories I have of him is from last year's Orange Shirt Day when after a session a few of us sat together with Joseph and discussed stories and various topics; and I noticed when I spoke of math and indigenizing math, he shared so many thoughts and ideas and we talked for long. It is such a cherished memory. He was always filled with stories and teachings. He will be truly missed....
Kimberly McQuabbieFamilyThank you /meegwetch to the college.Losing a link to our family has been extremely hard to deal with, just grieving day by day. All I say is Joseph lived his life to the fullest, steps he took with pride, the path he lead through his words was with honor...he loved with pure..with smiles with laughter..and he left a imprint on all......
Rebecca WeiCentennial CollegeMy deepest condolences to Josephs' family, friends and colleagues. I had the chance to meet Joseph on a couple of occasions during the early planning stage of the Centennial A Block Expansion project. He spoke very passionately about creating places that welcome everybody. I will remember his candidness, his honesty and his smile....
Gloria SavoieCentennial CollegeJoseph Mcquabbie was a wonderful man so kind and so caring and thoughtful and always helping Indigenous people. He was my employment counsellor years ago. Rest In Peace you will be missed all our love to the Mcquabbie family.
Bruce WilliamsBruce Williams, Director, Marketing and CommunicationsJoseph was such a pleasure to work with, and he really opened my eyes to the numerous issues we, as settlers, have to face up to in our relationship with Indigenous communities.
Roselyn Sagar-LalSr Development Officer, Major GiftsMy deepest and sincerest condolences to the family of Joseph during this very sad time. I hope that your cherished memories help you get through your loss. With sympathy, Roselyn.
Seán (waazakone mashkiki) KinsellaDirector, The Eighth Firemiyo-pimipociwim nîtotêm. The legacy and work that you have put in over the last decade here at Centennial will not be forgotten and will be held tight always. I will miss your sense of humour, and the ways you said exactly what needed to and how strongly you advocated for our people. I will miss you....
Sandra McEachranLibrary TechnicianI was shocked and very sad to learn of Joseph's passing. I met him a few years ago when I was learning about Indigenous Culture. He came and taught us much. The thing I remember most from his teaching was "ask us what we want, do not tell us what you think we want", in reference to Truth and Reconciliation. For me that is a very profound statement and makes so much sense. Joseph was a very unique individual. Whilst I have not seen him or interacted with him since that teaching moment, I will always remember Joseph with fondness. My heartfelt sympathies to Joseph's family and friends at this difficult time. I hope that knowing the kind of impact Joseph had on others will help your family....
Milan JelenicFacultyA real loss. I heard Joseph present once, his view on improving Indigenous lives was the most perfect I’ve ever heard. My sincerest condolences to his family and friends. Milan
Christine DeeringTechnical Specialist at Centennial CollegeI hope Joseph knew how much respect and love he had earned from us. My daughter was trying to foster an idea to work with the Indigenous communities and he gave her many insights and contacts to take forward, when no one else was willing to have a sit down or a discussion. He opened our eyes fully, and we can NEVER forget him for that alone. Of course there was more, I had the pleasure of working with Jospeh with his IT equipment on many occasions and it would always be a journey of chatting and stories that ended in laughter. Our hearts go out to Joseph's family at this very difficult time. But want to send reassurance that he will be remembered by us, fondly and often!...
Judy HermannFacultyMy heartfelt condolences to Joseph's family and friends. I did not know Joseph personally, but heard him speak often and was always moved by his words, his gentle spirit and his love of his people. I was truly saddened to hear of his passing. May you find peace and comfort in knowing he touched many lives and many share in your grief....
Hermia AnthonyFacultyYou have joined the ancestors. There must have been a great welcoming celebration. We shall all miss you but we know you are serving a higher purpose.
Laura WoodDirector, Student Community and EngagementWhile I didn't know Joseph very well, he was always very kind, thoughtful and supportive of the work and projects our team was exploring with Indigenous communities across Canada. I shall miss his insights. My thoughts are with Joseph's family at this difficult time....
Joe DimariaManager at Centennial CollegeWhat a man, a colleague and most of all a friend. We shared more than a name. humour, we many times joked with each other. even after his latest leg surgery, joseph came in for a visit, instead of us feeling awkward, he had has us crying with laughter. made it so much easier to talk to him. I'm sure in his new spiritual world/heaven , he has all the other spirits laughing right now. the next time you hear thunder , it's just joe making the other spirits rolling in laughter. one last joke between us buddy, but we will keep it to ourselves....
Nita SainiCo-op Education AdvisorI am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Joseph McQuabbie. Over the years, I am one of the countless people who had the honour of being the recipient of Joseph's teachings, compassion, wisdom and humour. There are no words to describe his impact. It was clear how much love and passion Joseph brought to Centennial - this was not simply 'work', but a deeply felt commitment to relationship building and supporting Indigenous communities inside and outside the College. My sincerest condolences to all of Joseph's friends, family and relations....
Annamaria KougiasFacultyI did not know Joseph well but I am sad to hear of his passing and send my condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and community members. I am so grateful to have heard his teachings on this year's Orange Shirt Day during which he shared with us his health condition of which he said he was not afraid. A true inspiration and teacher....
Justin Paolo Lim Vice president of the Centennial College Alumni Association Board of DirectorsI’m behalf of the Lim family, I would like to send our sincere condolences.
Sheila ChaiTalent Acquisition ConsultantMy heart is heavy to hear this news. Joseph played such a critical part in bridging the two-worlds, he will be immensely missed and remembered. Peace and comfort to all who are dear to him.
Jennifer WoodillChair, Community Service DepartmentI am saddened to hear of the passing of Joseph McQuabbie, and I send my condolences to his family. Joseph was a leader and teacher, challenging all of us to confront colonialism and work towards reconciliation. His passing is a great loss for Centennial College....
Sasha ChernomurovaLearning StrategistLike so many others, Joseph touched my life through his deep knowledge, commitment to positive change and humble, strong leadership. I had the pleasure of learning from Joseph on a few occasions and I will always remember the energy that Joseph brought with him. In a room, you could feel his presence through confidence, kindness, warmth, determination and humour. Yet, he always left room for others, learning and leading at the same time. It is a big, big loss. Deepest condolences to all those closest to Joseph. Yet, I hope that the learning, change and action that Joseph inspired will continue at its own time....
Nancy JohnsonDirector, Human ResourcesMay there be a sacred fire burning as you journey home. May the strength you shared be felt by all who are grieving your loss. Rest well Joseph-ba.
Rosanna Cavallaro]AVP Marketing CommunicationsI am deeply saddened to hear of Joseph’s passing. Joseph was an incredible gift to this world, and to Centennial College. I had the privilege of working with him when he introduced us to the first Elder who visited Centennial, as we began to develop trust and relations with Indigenous communities. It was an honour to have been guided by his knowledge. His presence always filled a room with wisdom and calm reflection. Safe journey Joseph, as you leave Mother Earth and enter your Spirit World. My sincerest condolences to the entire Centennial College community and all who loved him....
Lori RansomReconciliation and Indigenous Justice Animator, United Church of CanadaMy sincere condolences to Joseph’s family, friends, and colleagues. Though I did not know him well, as a recent appointee to the Aboriginal Education Council, I quickly came to appreciate Joseph’s gifts as a traditional teacher and am deeply cognizant of his profound contributions to Centennial College. May the Creator comfort and uphold all who mourn his loss....
Srishta ChopraLearning Strategist - Math SpecialistAs I remember Joseph today, one of the memories I have of him is from last year's Orange Shirt Day when after a session a few of us sat together with Joseph and discussed stories and various topics; and I noticed when I spoke of math and indigenizing math, he shared so many thoughts and ideas and we talked for long. It is such a cherished memory. He was always filled with stories and teachings. He will be truly missed....
Kimberly McQuabbieFamilyThank you /meegwetch to the college.Losing a link to our family has been extremely hard to deal with, just grieving day by day. All I say is Joseph lived his life to the fullest, steps he took with pride, the path he lead through his words was with honor...he loved with pure..with smiles with laughter..and he left a imprint on all......
Rebecca WeiCentennial CollegeMy deepest condolences to Josephs' family, friends and colleagues. I had the chance to meet Joseph on a couple of occasions during the early planning stage of the Centennial A Block Expansion project. He spoke very passionately about creating places that welcome everybody. I will remember his candidness, his honesty and his smile....
Gloria SavoieCentennial CollegeJoseph Mcquabbie was a wonderful man so kind and so caring and thoughtful and always helping Indigenous people. He was my employment counsellor years ago. Rest In Peace you will be missed all our love to the Mcquabbie family.