Josef Volf (1929 – 2015)

Joe Volf was born in Prestanice, Czech Republic and grew up in the small village of Velhartice. He and a childhood friend escaped from the Czech Republic on cross-country skis in 1949. They made their way to Germany where they lived in a refugee camp. In 1950 they sailed on a Greek boat to Halifax and from there went by train to Viking, Alberta. Joe worked in the family trade as a butcher and eventually married his wife Louise. They moved to Elsa in 1966 where they managed the local general store. They raised their four children there: Harvey, Joseph, Kevin, and Michelle. After the mine, closed they lived in Mayo for many years. They moved to Leduc, Alberta in 2014 to be closer to family. Joe was a family man, generous, strong, energetic, honest and great storyteller. He enjoyed reading, playing cards, cross country skiing and exploring nature. His favourite place was the family cabin by the lake. Josef was predeceased by his son Kevin.¹⁾