Jovan “Joe” Pelesh
Died: January 12, 2022 | Place: University Hospital, London
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Obituary
PELESH, Jovan “Joe”…
On Wednesday, January 12, 2022 in his 90th year, Jovan (Joe) Pelesh passed peacefully away at University Hospital, London. Dear husband of the late Ann Pelesh (2012) for 52 years, and the late Marguerite (nee Draho) Pelesh (1956). Loving father of daughter Jovanna Belair and her husband Daniel, son Tim Rodger, and son Mark Pelesh and his wife Jennifer Nicol. Beloved brother of the late Peter Pelesh (2021), and sister-in-law Doreen, brother of the late Russ (2018) and sister-in-law Sandra, and nieces Radene, Krista and their families. Cherished “Poppa Joe” of granddaughters Amy and her partner Alex, Meghan and husband Ben, Andrea and husband Dan, and grandson Nicolas Pelesh, as well as “Great Poppa Joe” to Franceis Belair-Cuyler, Kieran, William, the late Cillian (2016) McLellan (Amy and Alex), Evo and Gemma Von Muhlenen (Meghan and Ben), and Leon Stretch (Andrea and Dan). Missed by his Rodger and Stover-in-laws: Jim and Janet Rodger, the late Margie (2014) and Herb Stover, Dave and Bonnie Rodger, and all his Rodger and Stover nieces and nephews (Gary, Chantelle, Sarah, Emily, Todd, Ashley) and their families.
Joe was a warm, outgoing, dedicated and loyal man who made friends wherever he went. He was a highly respected district manager for Fina/Petro Canada until his retirement. Joe dedicated 41 years to his “other career” as time-keeper and announcer for the London Knights. In his retirement he played hockey for the Huff n’ Puff League until the age of 84. In his spare time, Joe could be found on the golf course in the warm weather, or cheering for his beloved Boston Bruins in winter.
Cremation has taken place. Family and friends are welcomed for visiting on Thursday, May 12, 2022 from 1:00-2:30 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. The memorial service will follow at 2:30 pm in the funeral home chapel. A reception will follow at the Best Western Plus Lamplighter Inn, London from 3:30-5:30 pm. Private interment in St. Peter’s Cemetery, London. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to the Palliative Care Unit at University Hospital, c/o London Health Sciences Foundation, 747 Base Line Road East, London, ON N6C 2R6. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com
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The community has lost a true gentleman and friend. Being with Joe was always a pleasure and without a doubt any time in his company brought laughter and joy. The many nights sitting next to him as he announced the games at the Gardens were wonderful times. He was a first-class person who gave more than he took. May the next part of your journey be filled with the rewards you deserve.
Pelesh Family,
My sincere condolences to the entire Pelesh family.. I grew up as youngster chumming around with the Pelesh kids and Joe was such a kind and generous man. So sorry for your loss.
I was very sad to hear about Joes passing- he was my favourite regular “Coffee Crew” guys at the McDonald’s I worked at as a teenager. He was always so kind, friendly and always had a big smile on his face with a contagious laugh. I always looked forward to seeing him! I am so sorry to your family- thanks for sharing your amazing dad, grandpa and great grandpa with me throughout the years!
Knowing Joe was one of the greatest pleasures in my life. He was a kind, gregarious and loving man who always treated others with respect. He was a true gentleman and a proud Serbian who loved to laugh and play sports, especially hockey! His accomplishments were many, however , he was very humble and chose to focus his attention on others. Joe touched my family deeply and he will be forever missed.My thoughts are with his lovely family at this sad and tender time. Do Videnja, Joe.
With much love,
Susan Sadler
I was very sad to hear of Joes passing. Joe was my favorite member of the “Coffee Crew” at a McDonalds location I worked at as a teenager.
Joe was friendly, funny, caring and always had a big contagious smile on his face when he walked in. He always made the effort to say hi and I always looked forward to the next time I got to chat with him and his buddies.
My condolences to the family- Thanks for sharing your dad, grandpa & great grandpa with me.
Condolences to the Pelesh Family. I met Joe and his son, Tim Rodger at the London Ice House. I was working for the Owen Sound Attack that night, and Joe was very welcoming, kind and respectful. His Public Announcing was one I’ll remember forever. Take Care.
So sorry to hear of Joe’s passing.
He was a great friend of my Mom & Dad and all of the 4 Lee boys. Always there to lend a hand and take an interest in all of our sport activities. He took me to one of my first hockey tryouts 65 years ago at Silverwood outdoor rink. He was a very nice and caring man.
Joe was a wonderful person. He was a rare gentleman, a kind man, and a man with a warmth that made you feel special. Each time we had a chance to talk in the past, I left feeling loved.
Joe was a good friend of my Dad’s and I know they spent many fun times throughout the years. Sincere condolences to the Pelesh Family.
Sorry to hear of Joe’s passing.
I worked for Joe for many years, first as his district clerk and then as a sales representative. It was a pleasure to work for Joe. He was a friend/a good guy.
When our family came to London in 1984, Joe became a work colleague and mentor. He was respected by everyone he came in contact with and was a true gentleman. The London community has lost a local hero. I’m sure he will be announcing a Junior hockey game in our memories for many years to come. Rest in peace Joe and thanks for making me a better person.
It was just this morning that I learned about Joe’s passing. My father hired Joe at Petro Fina in 1957. He was a true professional and became a lifelong friend of our family. I have fond memories as a child of Joe giving me pucks at the London Knights games and in more recent years helping him organize the Fina Old Boys golf tournament in Bayfield. He was a loyal person that always took an interest in others in a sincere and thoughtful way.
May he rest in peace.
Please accept my condolences.