Joseph Duz

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Joseph Duz on January 29, 2025, after a five-year battle with cancer. At the age of 59, he was taken far too soon. Joe will be profoundly missed by his wife Erin, son Jake, and daughter Logan; as well as his sister Angela and brothers Paul, Chris, and Mark; and numerous extended family and friends.

Born on April 3, 1965, to Al and Flo Duz (predeceased), Joe grew up in Toronto with four older siblings. As the youngest of five, he was always trying to prove himself and clearly developed certain personality traits within this family dynamic. He had unwavering determination grit and patience, and he handled the “hard stuff” exceedingly well. Everyone wanted Joe on their team – and there will be many teams out there who will feel his absence. 

Joe was a natural athlete and excelled at every sport he played, but he was most passionate about hockey and golf. In his youth, he played hockey at the highest level and often won the scoring title, even when competing against older and larger opponents. The arena was his second home, early in life as a player and then later in life as a coach for both Jake and Logan’s hockey teams, from the time they could skate. He influenced many young players during those memorable years and taught them not only hockey skills but valuable life lessons as well. Joe was a highly skilled golfer and found peace and camaraderie on the golf course, enjoying many rounds at Weston Golf and Country Club in Toronto and Mad River Golf Club in Creemore – his love for the game was matched only by the friendships it fostered. He also competed in many provincial and national golf tournaments over the years, with great accomplishments.

After graduating from York University, Joe launched his career in the pharmaceutical industry, eventually starting his own medical communications company (CTC Communications) in 1996, which he successfully ran until he sold it in 2020. His calm demeanor, his unparalleled work ethic, his genuine interest in others, and his intellectual curiosity made him exceptional in his field and a trusted boss and colleague. 

Joe was a gentleman. His quiet strength and confidence put people at ease. Joe was hard working and disciplined with a strong sense of loyalty and moral ethics. His dry witty sense of humour would catch you by surprise. Joe was humble and private, never wanting the spotlight – so much so that he chose not to disclose his illness to most people.

Joe experienced considerable success in many aspects of his life; however he always said he wanted his success to be measured by the happiness of his wife and children – in the end, this wise perspective proved that he was indeed the most successful.

We would like to thank Dr. Geoffrey Liu and the staff at The Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and Dr. Rob Caravaggio (Joe’s family physician and friend) for their medical expertise and compassionate care. 

Donations can be made to The Princess Margaret Cancer Centre or to a charity of your choice.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date at Ward Funeral Homes in Etobicoke.