A tribute from his friends and colleagues

 

It was with great consternation and shock that we learned of the untimely passing of Joe Stevens at his new retirement home in Seebring, Florida, on November 23rd, 1978. Joe had only recently announced his intention to retire and in fact had only been in Florida for a few days.

 

After 32 years with the Department, Joe knew every radio licensee..,.(and those operating without a licence) in his territory and had their respect as a hard—working and fair public servant. He helped many and asked nothing in return.

 

One of Joe's significant strengths was his ability to place an issue or problem in its relative co and analyse it within the framework of well-developed facility of en referred to as common sense. Although accused sometimes of being opinionated, inflexible — and even stubborn his understanding of situations and his suggestions for the solution of difficulties were well-taken and noteworthy. We like to remember some of the stories Joe would recount about his early days with the department. He related accounts of his winter journies by dog-team - and on more than one occasion by huddling together with his huskies did he avoid freezing in his travels across Northern Ontario.

 

In the early days of Joe’s career, he had responsibilities from Sault Ste Marie to the Manitoba border. Roads as we know them today were unpaved or non-existent and travel was by train arid foot. Joe often told the story of his trek in the middle of winter by snowshoe carrying diamond bits — from Pickie Lake to Red Lake. The trip took 3 days with only a compass and the stars for guidance. (Readers should check a map for the actual distance).

 

The most recent highlight of Joe Stevens’ career as Manager of the Thunder. Bay District Office … was to enforce the provisions of the Radio Act through seizures of unlicenced TV transmitter at Long Lac, Ontario, February 1978. While no prosecution resulted and in fact the equipment was returned — the attention of senior officials and parliamentarians was focused on the poor tv services offered in Northern Ontario, and Joe’s action lead directly to the first ever CRTC Hearing at Thunder Bay last fall.

 

Mr. Stevens served as an Electronics Instructor with the Navy during World War II. He held a valid aircraft pilot’s licence and was an active member of the Thunder Bay Flying Club.

 

Joe is survived by his wife, Beatrice, and their four children, to whom we extend our deepest sympathy as we say goodbye to a fine gentleman.