The late Joshua DeGagne was from Fort McMurray. His family and community are deeply mourning his untimely death following a tragic motor vehicle collision on June 4, 2024. Joshua, who was just 30 years old, passed away peacefully at Northern Lights Hospital on June 5, surrounded by his loved ones—his parents, brother, grandfather, best friend, the mother of his children, and his girlfriend.
Joshua was a devoted father to his two young sons, Hudson and Sawyer. His mother, Barbie DeGagne, shared her heartbreak on Facebook, describing Josh as "the most amazing father" and a person who lit up any room he entered. Barbie’s post reflected the deep love and admiration the family held for Josh, highlighting his big personality and the pride he took in his work as a Red Seal Heavy Duty Technician at Finning Mildred Lake.
Timika Strembitsky, a colleague of Josh, has organized a GoFundMe campaign in his memory. The fundraiser aims to support Josh’s family and his beloved sons during this difficult time. The goal is to raise $5,000, providing a space for friends and family to leave well wishes and contribute to the family’s needs.
The outpouring of condolences and support on social media is a testament to the impact Joshua had on those around him. Friends and family expressed their grief and shared their love for Josh and his family:
- Tanya Reay sent "lots of hugs to those precious boys," emphasizing that Josh will always be with them.
- Krissy Schmidt shared, "Josh was an amazing father and son," and praised Barbie for her strength as a mother.
- Timika Strembitsky noted, "It was an absolute honour and pleasure to work with Josh," highlighting the positive influence he had on his team.
- Michelle Schaus Whiteley expressed her heartbreak, stating, "I cannot imagine the incredible grief and pain you must be feeling."
The community’s response has been overwhelming, with many offering prayers, condolences, and support to Barbie and her family during this devastating time. The loss of Joshua DeGagne has left a void that words cannot fill, but the shared memories and collective love of those who knew him will continue to honor his memory.
Note:This post was written and edited by Olivia Hall, based on their expertise and research. It is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. We welcome your feedback and questions on this content. Please feel free to contact us.