Obituary of Joseph Sosa

March 21, 1936 – Gorica, Croatia

June 8, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

Joseph Sosa, beloved husband of Antonia “Ann” Sosa (nee Imhann) of Calgary, AB, passed away on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at the age of 88 years.

Joseph was born in Gorica, Croatia, on March 21, 1936. In 1958, he bravely immigrated to Canada, where he built a new life and future. He married Ann on June 26, 1965, and together they shared 59 wonderful years of marriage. Joseph graduated from the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology in Edmonton, AB, and enjoyed a fulfilling career as a construction manager.

Joseph was deeply involved in his community, being a dedicated member of the Carpenters Union and serving as the past President of the Canadian Croatian Cultural Centre. His commitment to service extended to his volunteer work with the Knights of Columbus. He was also an avid sports enthusiast and was passionate about soccer, hockey, and tennis.

Joseph was a proud father to his son and daughter, and a doting grandfather to his twin granddaughters, who brought immense joy to his life. Joseph treasured the pilgrimage he took with Ann in 2003, through the Netherlands, Germany, Croatia, and Montenegro to reconnect with family, creating memories that he held dear.

The most challenging moment of his life was leaving his family in Croatia to start anew in Canada, a decision marked by great courage and determination. Despite this, his unwavering love for his family and friends remained his greatest strength along, with his affection for his cherished pets, Smokey and Prince.

Joseph’s legacy of love, dedication, and service will be remembered by all who knew him. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the many lives he touched.

Besides his loving wife, Antonia, Joseph is survived by his two children, Stephen of Calgary, and Joanne (Craig Boyd) of Sunshine Coast, BC; his two grandchildren, Shaylen of Burnaby, BC, and Savannah of Sunshine Coast, BC; his brother-in-law John Imhann, his nephews, Shawn, and Chris Imhann of Edmonton, and Marinko (Estrella) Sosa of Calgary; his nieces, Julie Imhann, of Edmonton and Radojka Buljan of Toronto, ON; his great-nephews, Martin Sosa of Calgary and Steve (Julie) Buljan of Toronto; and great-nieces, Jessica Sosa of Calgary, Suzie (Kir) Kocevski, of Toronto; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins in Croatia, Germany, and Montenegro.

Joseph was predeceased by his parents, Stjepan and Anda; his three brothers, Petar (Matija), Jerko (Iva), and Franjo (Marija); and his sister-in-law Mary Imhann.

A Celebration of Joseph’s Life will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, AB) on Saturday, June 15, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the Funeral Home.

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

In living memory of Joseph Sosa, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, Ab t2x 3j3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.