Theodore Joseph Meers
May 24, 1921 ~ October 31, 2013
Theodore Joseph Meers of Canyon-Lister passed away on October 31, 2013, at the age of 92 years.
Joe was born on May 24, 1921 in St. Truiden, Belgium. He was educated at the University of Liege, Belgium.
He was in the English Army and was called to Burma in WWII. He was very active with the resistance in Belgium.
It was in Belgium, in 1946 that he started Judo. He immigrated to Canada with his family in 1966, and settled in Winnipeg, Manitoba where he worked with Manitoba Hydro.
Joe founded the Kettle Rapids Judo Club, in Gilam, MB, which had over 100 members. Joe was also a member of the Hirois Judo Club in Calgary, Alberta.
In 1978 he married Lika Skarzynska and they resided in Calgary, Alberta. In 1987 they moved to Creston, B.C. In 1988 Joe took over the Judo Club in the Creston Fire Hall and continued until 2006.
Joe enjoyed being close to nature where he could enjoy life to its fullest. His many interests include hiking, skiing, bicycling, horse riding, rappelling, exploring the back country, gold panning, and cutting trails for ATVing. He was also an avid reader.
Joe lived a full life to the end.
Joe was predeceased by his mother Marie Therese; father Joseph Meers; and sisters Andree, Dora and Nana.
He is survived by his loving wife Lika Meers-Skarzynska; daughter Dora O’Brien (Fred); son Leo Meers; Lika’s son Paul Ruminski (Louise); eight grandchildren; three great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
A Funeral Service was held at Holy Cross Church on November 8, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. with Father Tom Kakkaniyil officiating.
Those wishing to make a memorial contribution may do so to Kidsport 260 -3820 Cessna Drive, Richmond, B.C. V7B 0A2 Phone 604-333-3430