Joel Esteban Conlu Tupaz ( aka Ding, Balodoy, Baluds) now rests in the loving embrace of the Lord as he has joined our Creator on Friday, August 22, 2025, following a courageous battle with prostate cancer. He was a loving father, devoted grandfather, caring brother, affectionate uncle, and faithful friend.

Joel was born in Mambusao, Capiz, Philippines on September 8, 1951. He spent his early childhood in Mambusao, then moved to Manila in 1963. He completed his education in the Philippines, graduating from high school at the Philippine College of Arts and Trades and his electrical engineering degree at the Adamson University.

He managed the family’s export garment business, a responsibility that led him to travel extensively throughout the United States and Canada. In 2006, he and his family made the life-changing decision to immigrate to Toronto. There, he brought his skills and dedication to several companies in the food service and hospitality industry across the city, building a gratifying and rewarding career.

In November 2022, Ding was diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer. While life-threatening, Ding did not allow this disease to dampen his enthusiasm for life nor deter his dream of traveling.

In June 2024, Ding retired from Compass Group. Upon retiring, he embraced the opportunity to devote more time to his loved ones, cherishing each moment with his family especially his grandchildren, who brought new joys to his days. Retirement also allowed him to reconnect with old friends, while deepening the bond with current ones, and he found great pleasure in sharing stories and laughter in their company.