Shayne D. Joseph Sr., 52 of Niagara Falls, NY passed away suddenly at his home on Sunday May 6, 2012. Born December 25, 1959 and was of Six Nations Canada, he was the son of the late Marshall E and Rita (Green) Joseph.

Shayne was Tuscarora and Cayuga, and belonged to the Wolf Clan. His Indian name was Hon-on-we dah, which means, 'ripples in the water', and was also known as Shayne Bear and Chief. Shayne grew up in the LaSalle area of Niagara Falls and graduated from the former LaSalle Senior High School. He worked several years for the New York State Parks Department. Shayne enjoyed fishing, playing hockey, cards and horse shoes. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren. Shayne was a great man with a good heart, who would never say no.

Shayne is survived by his lifelong partner, Denise E. Patterson, his children, Amber Joseph of Lockport, NY, Jamie Joseph, Andrea Joseph, Shayne Joseph Jr., all of Niagara Falls, NY, and was predeceased by two daughters, Elisha Printup and Shayna Joseph. He is also survived by a step-daughter Elizabeth Calaty of Niagara Falls, NY, five grandchildren, Makalyn DeGolier, Shayna, Shyann and Glenn Durham, Justina Zacher, six sisters, Michelle (Wilfred) Chew of Sanborn, NY, Sharon Joseph, Patrice Joseph, Annette (John) Stempien, Teresa Joseph, and Crystal Joseph , all of Niagara Falls, NY, four brothers, Danny Joseph of Hamilton, Ontario, Paul (Shelly Dubuc) Joseph of Lewiston, NY, Kevin (Linda) Joseph and Jeff Porter both of Niagara Falls, NY, as well as several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. He was also predeceased by two brothers, Vincent Joseph and Donald Sky.

Visitation will be on Thursday from 6-8 p.m. at M.J. COLUCCI & SON FUNERAL CHAPEL 468 19TH STREET NIAGARA FALLS, NY where funeral services will follow at 8 p.m. with Rev. Donald Robinson officiating. Burial will be held at the convenience of the family in Mt. Hope Cemetery Tuscarora Nation.