Major (Ret’d) Joseph Isaie Haché, Canadian Armed Forces, peacefully received his final promotion to Heaven on October 5, 2025, at the age of 88.
He made a lifetime of memories with his loving and devoted wife of 63 years, Doris (nee Hartley), and his two daughters Crystal and Robin (John). He also delighted in his three much-loved grandchildren Kyle (Kelsey), Rebecca (Clayton), and Hannah, and his three precious great-grandchildren Riley, Noah, and Alessi.
The tapestry of Joe’s life is woven with the threads of integrity, loyalty, tenacity, service, leadership, courage, discipline, gratefulness, and faith in God.
Born August 2, 1937, in Robertville, NB, to the late Clement Isaie Hachey and Marguerite Arsenault Hachey, Joe was a thriver from day one in his large French Acadian family. The challenging rural upbringing of his youth fundamentally shaped who he was. The choices he made—and those made for him—created the colorful, adventurous, and dynamic story of his life.
At seventeen, Joe joined the Canadian Military Police (Provost Corps), seeking structure and brotherhood. Thirty-eight years later, he was affectionately known as the “Grand Daddy of Counterintelligence” among international colleagues and those in the know. His career took him around the world on several United Nations peacekeeping postings, where he faced challenges and opportunities that demonstrated exceptional leadership, courage, and professionalism in complex and challenging environments. To his family, he will always be remembered as the devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose consistent strength and love guided them through life.
He met his beloved wife, Doris, on a serendipitous train ride in 1961, an encounter that changed the trajectory of his life forever. Hand in hand—with little money and an abundance of love and optimism—they began a new life together, traveling the world and creating a love story of genuine affection and commitment that continues to shape the lives of their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Joe received numerous medals and accolades for his heroic service to Canada, including being named a Member of the Order of Military Merit (M.M.M.) by the Governor General of Canada. Yet his greatest treasures are found in the hearts of those he loved and the countless lives he touched through his service.
After retiring from the military, Joe remained devoted to serving others—not as an obligation, but as a reflection of who he was. A deep man of faith and a devoted follower of Jesus Christ, Joe volunteered in many areas of his local church, his community and he served internationally with International School Partnerships, teaching values and ethics to teachers in Central America. Joe took God’s commandment of loving God and loving others deeply to heart. He lived by the principle of doing what was right and leaving every place better than he found it through his service. He held those who serve others in the highest esteem, always making a point to honour and acknowledge the unseen yet essential contributions of those around him. Those marching orders of tangible love for others defined his life—and the love of his Creator fueled his passions.
Joe’s courage and gratefulness shone brightly over the past eight years as he entrusted his care to his many compassionate caregivers—first at home and, in his final three months, at Perley Health. Caregivers are truly angels who walk among us.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 8, 2025 from 2:00-3:00pm at Greenbelt Church, 839 Shefford Road, Ottawa, ON. All are welcome to attend.
In the words of Joe, "God is in control". Peace and connection with God provide the only true meaning and purpose for an unpredictable life. “Be still and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10
Until we meet again, Dad—we love you, we will miss you, and we know you’ve simply gone ahead to do a “recce” on Heaven. We’ll expect a full report when we see you again.
Thank you for showing us how to forge ahead and create a life worth living.
Digital Guestbook
Bob and Ruth Douglas
Dianne Van der Putten
My deepest condolences to the whole family on the loss of dear Joe. He was a man that loved God, his beloved wife Doris and his whole family well. He lived, loved and served with all of his heart. Well done good and faithful servant, until we see you again, be at peace.
Gwen Bouchard
A life well lived, clearly and wholly dedicated to reflect Jesus in every aspect of his life! His dedication to family, love of people of all ages and his great sense of humour were so appreciated! Our hearts are with his family as you look forward to the day you'll meet again in heaven!
Leo and Linda Post
An imposing figure at first glance, Joe was a gentle man with a servant's heart. We will remember his booming voice, his endearing smile and the twinkle in his eye.
Dave Kimbell
Only spoke with Joe a handful of times (usually at the back of Greenbelt on a Sunday morning) before he became ill. 100% gentleman. 100% man of God.
He now sees things and beings that we can only begin to imagine.
wendy hartley
Will miss you Joe having you for a brother-in-law was a privilege Say hi to Richard for me and you will have the lord with youboy
Grace Winn
With fond memories of working with Joe on the initiative he set up with Cumberland to get kids to pick up garbage from various walkways and parks. He even took it to the level of getting the town council to give the kids official recognition! Such a dedicated man of God who served with dignity for folks of all ages.
Stephen & Eileen Hill
How good to have criss-crossed family paths through military assignments over many years. We tracked you down in Germany, Edmonton, Ottawa and others; all starting with Greenbelt Baptist in Ottawa.
We enjoyed wise spiritual and practical advice, good humour, and the valuing of one another between families; which makes us more eager to get back together with Joe in a short while.
In the meantime Doris, Crystal and Robin we're certainly praying for the Lord's peace that passes understanding to keep your hearts and minds in Him through ongoing days...
Love you dearly, Steve & Eileen
This beautifully written obit captures Joe's smile, joy in family and life of service. We always considered him a fine friend.