So sorry to hear of Joe's passing. Sincere sympathy to his family. We had many enjoyable lunch time conversations and Joe's hearty laugh and meaningful observations on a variety of topics are treasured memories for me.
We had the privilege of having Mr. D'Costa as our Grade 13 Mathematics and homeroom teacher in 1974. His infectious smile and enthusiasm gave us all an opportunity to love Math. He was a truly gifted teacher and an inspiration to all.
We had a challenge with the rest of the school to sell the most yearbooks and our class won the double spread photo. Mr. D'Costa was determined to win. Check out our 1974 class photo on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=10156972036667212&set=pcb.10159581738833448
He will be missed but never forgotten. RIP
My sympathies to family and friends. Joe certainly made the most of his time here on earth. His passion for mathematics and teaching was boundless and so many benefited from this. Thank you for your dedication and service to education...rest in peace dear soul.
In 1978, Joe interviewed me for a teaching job at TLK for mathematics. I was delighted to be hired as part of the PE and math departments where I had a wonderful career at TLK until retirement in 2008. Joe was a mentor to many and lead by example; he was extremely intelligent, affable and always had a smile for students and staff alike. I recall fond memories when we taught ballroom dancing to senior students in PE class in preparation for our formal. Joe would come as a guest visitor to demonstrate some of his dance steps twirling me around the gym floor. He was a "smooth operator" and a brilliant dancer. On our staff trips to Woodbine Racetrack, he would help me place bets as I knew nothing about horse racing and I actually came home with some winnings. My husband, Hugh Welbourn, who taught mathematics at Applewood, worked with Joe at night school. They shared a passion for eloquent math solutions and designing exemplary questions. Joe had a sharp mind; his compassion reached out to those around him and he had a zest for fun and life-long learning. May angel wings lift him to the stars and may his ions forever live in those whom he touched.
Adieu dear friend. Lily Marcinek
I started my teaching career at T. L. Kennedy in the early 1970's, where Joe was already Head of the Mathematics Department. I have fond memories of going to the horse races with Joe. He would organize an annual trip to dinner and the races for the staff, and even gave tips on how to bet. I remember Joe as a true gentleman- kind, considerate and fun-loving. He will be missed.