Joseph Frederick Ruete April 7, 1943 - October 15, 2026

Joe was raised and lived in Minnitaki until he built his dream home, a log house on Eagle Lake, where he enjoyed life to its fullest with his family. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 62 years, Connie; his daughters, Laura Lee and Jolie Ann (Trent); and his cherished grandchildren, Kayden and Jinessa. He will be truly missed and forever remembered by his family and many dear friends.

Joe began working at an early age, first in construction on the Trans-Canada Highway and cutting wood lots alongside his father. He later worked in the finishing room at the Dryden Paper Mill before moving to the Woodlands Division, where he could spend his days outdoors. He continued to “cut wood” for many years as the mill changed hands, eventually retiring from Raleigh Falls Timber.

Joe was a proud original member of the Machin Volunteer Fire Department, later serving as Deputy Fire Chief. He also served several terms as a councillor for the Municipality of Machin and returned to the role again during his retirement, always willing to give back to his community.

A true outdoorsman, Joe found joy in every season. Whether hunting, fishing, canoeing, snowmachining, boating, flying, or camping with family and cherished friends, he embraced every adventure. He travelled from coast to coast and to the far north of Canada, collecting countless memories. Many know that Joe loved a good road trip even when there was barely a road to drive on and every adventure led to a story to be told.

Joe was hardworking, easygoing, fun-loving, and always ready to lend a hand. He had a way of making the most of life and sharing that joy with everyone around him. Joe’s wish would be for everyone to find joy in the things he loved to do. Many knew him as a “lucky” man, but those who knew and loved him know that we are all the lucky ones to have had him in our lives.

He will be forever loved, deeply missed, and never forgotten.

A Celebration of Life will follow at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his name may be made to the Machin Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box 249, Vermilion Bay, ON P0V 2V0, or call 807-227-2633.