August 10, 1975 - October 28, 2020
It is with sad hearts that we announce the accidental death of Joe Bauman on October 28, 2020.
Joe leaves behind his mother, Joyce (Dieter) Baynham Bunge; brother, Jason (Karly) Bauman; son, Tegan Bauman; aunts and uncles (Carolyn and Jim Shepherd, Wendy and Larry Findlay); as well as several cousins and friends. He was predeceased by his father, Terry Bauman.
Joe attended high school in Cranbrook, lived in Nanaimo, and then moved back to Maple Ridge where he was born and where he felt he belonged. There, like many others living on low incomes, he experienced firsthand the challenges of finding affordable safe housing.
Joe was a bright, thoughtful, well spoken, sensitive, creative, and caring person. He is remembered for helping others and for advocating for improved community services. Joe used his voice with the media, with city officials in Maple Ridge, and with the provincial housing ministry to speak to the urgent need for livable affordable housing. He also advocated for the legalization of drugs and harm reduction.
The drug epidemic has claimed another father, son, brother, uncle, nephew, and friend suddenly and at too early of an age. We are left wondering why this is still happening to people who need and deserve so much better.
Due to the COVID pandemic, a memorial will be held at a later date to remember and honour Joe and his life.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Salvation Army Homeless Shelter.