Obituary of Joseph Masihdas Rupnarain

November 16, 1946 - Georgetown, Guyana

May 25, 2024 - Calgary, Alberta

Joseph Rupnarain of Calgary, AB, passed away on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at the age of 77 years.

Joseph was born in Georgetown, Guyana, on November 16, 1946. He immigrated to Canada in 1966 after receiving scholarships to multiple Canadian universities. He graduated from the University of Calgary with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Pure Mathematics. He retired after forty years of employment at the University of Calgary.

Everyone remembers Joseph’s passion for advanced math and physics, subjects he enjoyed helping family and students with. He also enjoyed many genres of classic movies, Motown and Caribbean-inspired music, world history and politics, and reading Charles Dickens’ literature. He was generally quiet but liked to engage in lively discussions and could crack a good joke when least expected. Joseph was also known for his distinct and suave style and was sometimes likened to Elvis with his signature leather vest, cowboy boots, and thick black hair.

Joseph is survived by his daughters Rita (Chris), Reena, and Kim (Todd) of Calgary, AB; and was a loving and generous grandpa to JJ, Treyvan, Scarlette, and Roman. He is also survived by his sisters, Sylvia, Ivy, Lucy (Jeff), Jean (Robin), and Janet; as well as his niece, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his son Bobby, the mother of his children, Praneeta, his brother Walter, and his sister Inez.

There will be a private viewing and memorial service held for immediate family.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Joseph’s family here.

In living memory of Joseph Rupnarain, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Crowfoot, 82 Crowfoot Circle NW, Calgary, AB T3G 2T3, Telephone: 403-241-0044.