Joe Huinink told his last story and cracked his final joke at Lakeridge Health Oshawa on March 14, 2025, surrounded by love and his devoted family.

Joe, the longest-living Huinink at almost 93, was predeceased by his parents, eight siblings, countless friends, and his beloved wife of 61 years, Ceacilia. He immigrated to Canada from Holland in 1956 and built a life rooted in resilience, ingenuity, and generosity.

A genuine and eternally optimistic man, Joe was known for his curiosity, problem-solving skills, and a “do-it-yourself” attitude. He mastered electrical work, plumbing, automotive repair, bricklaying, welding, and more—never needing to “call a guy” because he was the guy. He was always willing to lend a hand, whether to family, friends, or a stranger in need.

Joe took great pride in his work as a 3CS Engineer at Houdaille and Darlington OPG. His respect for nature was evident in his commitment to sustainability, living by the principles of the 7Rs: reduce, reuse, recycle, redesign, remake, rearrange, and reimagine. His inventive mind led him to create unique projects, including a bike with skis, a bird comfort station, a steam whistle doorbell, and a chicken egg incubator.

Joe’s legacy lives on through his daughters Debbie, Audrey, Lorraine, and Jennifer, along with their spouses Dan, Darren, Kirk, and Pierre. He was a beloved grandfather to Sarah (Derrick), Adam (Mallory), Sam (Stephanie), Madison (Jonathan), Kayleigh (Danny), Matt (Dan), and Mitchell, and a proud great-grandfather to Grayson and Brooks. He will be dearly missed by his card partners and nieces, Marg (Theo), Marlene, Betty (Steve), and Diane.

The family extends their gratitude to Dr. Harvey Williams for his dedication and to the kind staff at Lynde Creek Retirement Home, where Joe’s later years were filled with warmth and care.

Joe was a fiercely proud Canadian, always giving more than he took from the country that gave him so much. He traveled coast to coast with his beloved brother Benny and embodied the spirit of “Joe Canada.” Elbows up!

Visitation

Visitation will be held at Newcastle Funeral Home (386 Mill St S, Newcastle, ON) on:

• Thursday, March 20, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
• Friday, March 21, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM

Funeral Service & Reception

A funeral service will follow at Newcastle Funeral Home on Friday, March 21, 2025, at 2:00 PM. A reception with cheers, beers, and shared stories will take place immediately after.