Joseph Pathyil, lovingly known as Uppachan Chettan passed away peacefully in Mississauga on February 23, 2026, at the age of 91, after 59 remarkable years in Canada.

He was born on October 4, 1934 in Kaipuzha in the state of Kerala, India as the ninth child of ten to parents Abraham Pathyil and Naithy Pannivelil, Joseph’s life was marked by faith, education, leadership, and service. He began his early education at St. Margaret’s Convent School and continued at St. George’s English Medium School in Kaipuzha. In 1947, he joined the St.Gabriel’s Congregation in Coonoor as an aspirant. After completing his novitiate in 1950, he took the name Brother Eugenius and devoted himself to religious life and education.

He earned his B.A. degree from Loyola College, Chennai, and his B.Ed. from St. Xavier’s Teachers Training College, Palayamkottu. At just 23 years old, he was appointed Headmaster of St. Antony’s High School in Coonoor. He later served as Principal of St. Gabriel’s Higher Secondary School, Kazipet and went on to establish St. Alphonsus High School in Nalgonda. After nearly 20 years in religious life and education in India, Joseph made the difficult decision in 1967, with the blessing of his superiors and family, to leave the congregation and begin a new chapter.

Soon after, he immigrated to Montreal, Canada, where he secured a permanent teaching position. In August 1967, he married Josephine Kunnakkat (Josie Kochamma), and together they built a loving home in Montreal. They were blessed with two sons, Frank and Vince. While continuing his teaching career, Joseph pursued higher education in the evenings, earning two Master’s degrees — in English and in History.

In 1989, Joseph relocated to Ontario, where he continued teaching until his retirement in 1994, completing 37 distinguished years in the field of education. A gifted writer and inspiring speaker, he was widely admired for his eloquence in English and frequently served as a master of ceremonies at community events — a role he embraced with dedication and preparation.

Beyond his professional life, Joseph was deeply involved in social, cultural, and community organizations. He played an active role in Malayalee Associations in Montreal and the Ontario Liberal Party. As the first person from the family to reach North America, he became a guide and mentor to many who later migrated to Canada and the United States. He was instrumental in contributing to the establishment of KCCNA and the Knanaya Mission in Canada and across North America. In May 2023, he was honored by the visit of Archbishop Mar Mathew Moolakkattu, who presented him with a memento in recognition of his valuable service to the Knanaya community. Joseph was also passionate about the game of bridge. He enjoyed playing bridge and he played in many bridge tournaments in Canada and many other tournaments online. He formed lasting relationships with bridge partners and opponents from across Canada and all over the world.

Joseph leaves behind his beloved wife Josie Kochamma; his sons Frank and Vince; daughters-in-law Mary Ann and Vinita; numerous nephews and nieces; and countless friends and community members whose lives he touched with his wisdom, generosity, and leadership.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Kidney Foundation of Canada.

Joseph will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.

‘A life well-lived, a love well-shared.’