Josh Shawn Lamke, who made Blackfalds, Alberta his home after years on the road as a pipeline worker, passed away unexpectedly at his residence on the night of April 23rd, 2024. Born on October 27th, 1994, in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Josh was known for his unwavering work ethic, boundless sense of humor, and his deep commitment to family and friends.
Following his passing, his family, including his parents Shawn and Melissa Lamke, and his younger sister Kali, faced the sudden and heartbreaking task of settling his affairs far from their home. In response, a GoFundMe campaign was launched by Keely Kykkanen to alleviate the financial burden on Josh’s family as they traveled to Alberta. The campaign aims to cover expenses such as flight costs, fuel, accommodations, and the ongoing financial obligations of Josh’s estate, along with funding memorials in both Alberta and Thunder Bay. As of now, the fundraiser has collected $2,070 CAD towards a $10,000 goal, with contributions from friends and family including top donations from Dean & Justina Felske and others.
Laci-Rae Bixby, a close friend of Josh, emphasized the importance of supporting the family during this difficult time and highlighted the broader issue of men’s mental health in her heartfelt Facebook post. She noted, "Men’s mental health is SO important and highly overlooked, you’re missed by so many Josh!" This sentiment underscores the dual purpose of the fundraiser which also aims to support men’s mental health initiatives through donations to the Movember Foundation if excess funds are raised.
Josh’s life, marked by frequent relocations and the companionship of his beloved dogs Lennox & Kayda, and his partner Abby, was characterized by his desire to eventually settle down next to his best friend, who he considered a brother. This tragic loss has resonated deeply within the community, sparking a collective effort to honor a life well-lived but cut tragically short.
Note:This post was written and edited by Luke Sanchez, 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.