Joseph P. Kerwin

Joseph Patrick Kerwin, 88, died peacefully on December 28, 2025.

Born on May 30, 1937, in St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada, Joe was one of 13 children born to the late Mary (Fox) and Leo Kerwin.  

At just five years of age, Joe began working as a ‘paper boy’ at Pepperrell Air Force Base in his hometown of St. John’s. That first work experience would shape his goals of becoming an American and serving in the U.S. Air Force, where he proudly worked as a meteorologist for over 20 years. Joe retired from active duty in 1976, beginning a second successful career in meteorology with the National Weather Service and the U.S. Civil Service before retiring at Eglin Air Force Base.

It was through the Air Force, and an unexpected assignment, that he met his future wife. Stationed in her hometown of Stephenville, Newfoundland, Joe met Alice at the general store and was instantly smitten. Their relationship flourished, but a denied proposal set them both on independent paths for almost two decades. 17 years after first meeting, Joe and Alice found themselves in Stephenville again, and this time the proposal was joyfully accepted!

Upon retirement, Joe discovered his most fulfilling role yet – that of grandfather. Being “Joe-Joe” was his greatest accomplishment, and he found endless joy in the laughter, love, and wonder of his beloved grandchildren.  

He is survived by daughters, Julie Kerwin Cumby of Inlet Beach, FL, and Brenda Shumate (Casey) of Edmond, OK; his grandchildren, Coleman and Bennett Cumby, Brad and Brooke Shumate; and great-grandson, Keaton Shumate. He is also survived by his devoted brother, Kevin Kerwin of St. John’s, Newfoundland, along with dozens of cherished nieces and nephews.

Joe is preceded in death by his loving wife of 42 years, Alice (White) Kerwin; his parents, Leo and Mary Fox; and siblings, Mary Walsh, Margaret Kerwin, Jim Kerwin, Leo Kerwin, Joan Cullen, John Kerwin, Arthur Kerwin, Gus Kerwin, Zita Daniel, Don Kerwin, and Regina Lake.

Joe will be remembered for the endless love he showed his family; the respect and admiration he held for his friends; the guidance and support he shared with countless colleagues; and his vibrant, lively personality that never failed to light up a room. His legacy of family, faith, and love will live on in all who knew him. 

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