It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of José Joaquim Pires, who died on June 28, 2025, at the age of 90. Born in Parada do Monte, Melgaço, Portugal, on June 10, 1935, José was the son of Cesário Augusto Pires and Rosa Esteves. After leaving Portugal at a young age, he travelled through Spain and into France where he settled and worked for several years before coming to Canada. He went on to have a successful but shortened career as an Ironworker. His passions included gardening and winemaking, but he will be remembered most for his love of family as well as his kindness and generosity to his many close friends and neighbours, who simply called him “Joe”. He is survived by his loving wife, Maria, his adoring son, Manuel (Lan), and his beloved grandchildren, Laura and Matthew. José is also survived by his sisters, Maria and Pura. A funeral service will be held at York Cemetery & Funeral Centre, on Monday, July 7, 2025. Visitation will be held at the York chapel between 10am and 2pm, with service beginning at 2pm, followed by interment. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alzheimer Society, Heart & Stroke Foundation, or St. Michael’s Hospital.