Giuseppe (Joseph, Joe) Leonardo Busetto

Giuseppe Leonardo Busetto, lovingly known as Joseph or Joe, passed away peacefully at 92 years young, surrounded by his family, on April 16, 2026, in Armstrong Spallumcheen, British Columbia.

Joe was born on April 11, 1934, in Colza, Italy, to his parents Pasqua Busetto (Frizzani) and Augusto Busetto.

He was a devoted husband, loving Father, Brother, Uncle, Nonno, BisNonno, and a true friend to many.

Joe was a man of incredible work ethic, determination, and talent. As a young man in Italy, he began working as a shepherd, herding cows high into the mountains where they made cheese by hand. 

He worked hard alongside his Uncle, learning the trade of tanning and developing the strong work ethic that stayed with him throughout his life. He also did cement work throughout his town, helping build and shape the community around him. He took great pride in working with his hands and was known for his dedication and skill. 

In 1954, at the age of 20, Joe made the brave journey to Canada with his brother Johnny. They arrived in Halifax and first found work on a farm in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. Not long after, Joe travelled by train to Calgary, where he worked near Shepard with CP Rail.

While searching for work through the Italian Consulate in Calgary, Joe built lifelong friendships and found many opportunities, including building cement bridges throughout Calgary and surrounding areas some of which are still standing today. Next time you drive over the Crowchild Trail overpass, think of him.

His work then took him to Exshaw at the lime plant quarry, and later to Canmore, where he worked in the coal mines for nine years. It was also during his time in Canmore that he spent one memorable day as the town dog catcher—a story that always brought a smile and perfectly reflected his willingness to take on any job that came his way.

It was in Canmore where he met the love of his life, Cecilia. After a few years of dating, they were married and, last year, celebrated an incredible 65 years of marriage on July 30. 

During his time in Canmore, Joe’s love of the outdoors opened a new path for him. He was an avid hunter who loved both big game and bird hunting, and he had a deep appreciation for nature and wildlife. He completed a correspondence course in taxidermy , which became the foundation for what would grow into a successful lifelong career. “Taxidermy by Joe Busetto” became well known and respected throughout Alberta.

In 1966, the family moved to Calgary, where the business flourished. It truly became a family business, with Cecilia, his brother Johnny, both sons Joey and Allen, his daughter Kathy , and daughter-in-law Dee all working alongside him.

His love for the outdoors also led him to become a trapper for the City of Calgary.

In 1970, Joe was invited to teach his craft at SAIT, Olds College, and in several communities throughout Southern Alberta, sharing his knowledge and passion with many others.

He retired at age 67, allowing him more time for the things he loved most—fishing in Campbell River and Port Hardy, spending time outdoors, hunting, and especially gardening. 

In 2006, Joe and Cecilia made the move to Armstrong, BC, where he continued to enjoy one of his greatest passions: gardening. His gardens were always overflowing with vegetable’s, fruit trees and grapes. he found great joy in sharing the fruits of his labor with friends, neighbours, and family. 

He had a deep love for making homemade wine, a tradition he cherished and happily shared with family and friends—always enjoying a good glass, good conversation, and the company of those he loved.

He even became fascinated with growing marijuana—simply because he could and  loved the challenge of growing it.

Joe had a special love for his dogs throughout his life. They were loyal companions on hunting trips, in the garden, and by his side through the years, bringing him great joy and companionship.

Joe will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his strong hands, generous heart, incredible stories, sense of humor, and the legacy he built for his family.

He is lovingly survived by his wife, Cecilia; his children Joey and Dee Busetto, Allen Busetto, and Kathy and Vince Torok. 

He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren:

Tina and Joel Drennan,

Johanna and Eric Martin,

Joseph Busetto and Victoria,

Ashley Torok and Caleb Edwards,

Robert Torok 

As well as his beloved great-grandchildren:

Zoe, Amalie, and Joseph Sidney (Jossi).

Joe also leaves behind a brother Arduino and Rosanna Busetto and their families, many cherished nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, including his nieces and families in Italy. They all  held a special place in his heart

Joe was predeceased by his parents, Pasqua Busetto (Frizzani) and Augusto Busetto; his sister, Alma Pittini; his niece, Ida Pittini; and his brother, Giovanni (Johnny) Busetto.

He leaves behind a lifetime of memories, laughter and, lessons that will never be forgotten. 

“See you next time”

🌿 🌱 🌿

Honorary Pallbearers

Joey Busetto                    Allen Busetto                       

Vince Torok                     Robert Torok                  

Joseph Busetto                Joseph Sidney Busetto

Joel Drennan                    Eric Martin

Caleb Edwards  

“See you next time”

With love remembered, in every garden that grows.

Arrangements entrusted to

Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services 250-546-7237

Condolences may be expressed to the family by phone or email through Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services: