With broken hearts, the family of Josip (Joseph) Radotić announces his peaceful passing at the Ruddy-Shenkman Hospice on July 1st, 2025 at the age of 87. Predeceased by his beloved wife Zora (July 18, 2018), he leaves behind his loving daughter Nevenka (Nancy) Radotić and son-in-law Glenn Cheam.
He was a proud Dida to Valerie (Adam Finch) and Meagan Cheam (Julia Gordon), and loving Pradida to Christina, Rachel, Bradley, and Blake Finch.
Josip is also survived by his nieces and nephews – Đurđica, Josipa, Marija, Miljenko, Stipica and their families in Croatia, and his cousin Zora Brbot and her family in British Columbia, as well as dear friends in Montreal and Toronto.
Born in Brinje, Croatia, the youngest son of Josip and Marija Radotić, Joe lost both parents by age 16 and was raised by his sister Marija (Mica). At 18, he fled mandatory army service, journeyed to Austria, and later immigrated to Canada in 1958, landing in Quebec City.
A charming and hardworking carpenter, Joe later reunited with Zora, the love of his life, whom he met in Austria. They married, built a beautiful life together, and raised two children – Nancy and Steven – in Montreal. In 1978, they moved to Florida and ran a family-owned motel until retiring in 1995. Travel and family gatherings filled their retirement years.
Known for his warmth and sociability, Joe lit up every room with music, laughter, and his love of Croatian culture. He adored his family and was especially fond of his granddaughters and great-grandchildren. Even in hospice, he made sure to have cookies ready for their Sunday visits.
Special thanks to the staff at Stonehaven Manor, the Dialysis Unit at Queensway Carleton Hospital, and Ruddy-Shenkman Hospice for their compassionate care.
A visitation will be held on Friday, July 25th, 2025, at Alan R. Barker Funeral Home, 19 McArthur Ave., Carleton Place, ON from Noon to 2:00 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 2:30 p.m. in the Chapel. Interment will follow at Highland Park Cemetery, 2037 McGee Side Road, Carp. A reception will be held at 179 Country Lane Drive, Carleton Place.
Donations in memory of Josip may be made to Hospice Care Ottawa (Ruddy-Shenkman Hospice).
Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Barker Funeral Home.
