Peacefully at the F.J. Davey Home on Friday, November 19, 2021, in his 91st year.
Beloved husband of the late Patricia. Loving and adored father of Nancy Hewitt (Kirk), Kelly Blair (Tom), Nick Bumbacco (Michele) and Julie Reid (Scott). Cherished grandpa of Brock (Rachel), Amy (Justin), late Kayla Hewitt; Chris and Lauren Blair; Blair and Brooke Bumbacco; Emma and Jenna Reid. Proud great grandfather of Ellery, Clark, Avery, Jaxon and Ryan. Predeceased by his parents Patrick and Georgina Bumbacco. Dear brother of Patricia Maninos and Ed Bumbacco (Barb) and brother-in-law of Gayle Pszeniczny (Dan). Also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Joe was co-owner of Bumbacco Sports, a Soo landmark for over 35 years. A lifelong fixture in Sault Ste. Marie, Joe was known by all for his humour, generosity and love of life and family. He loved camping and carpentry and was devoted to the Catholic church. He was a gifted athlete with professional prospects in both baseball and hockey. He left home at a young age to play junior hockey with the Montreal Canadiens organization and skated with some of the all-time greats. He played for the Soo Greyhounds and is a member of the Sault Ste. Marie Hockey Hall of Fame. Joe selflessly volunteered with local organizations including the Bandettes Drum & Bugle Corps, minor league hockey and many others, making innumerable contributions to our community. Joe will be long remembered for all he gave.
Our family thanks the Davey Home for their wonderful care and compassion. A celebration of life and interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations would be appreciated (payable by cheque or online) to ARCH, Sault Area Hospital - Cancer Care Fund or to the charity of your choice. Arrangements entrusted to Arthur Funeral Home - Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington St. E 705-759-2522). Fond memories and expressions of sympathy for Joe's family may be shared at www.arthurfuneralhome.com.