By: Thomas I. Likness
EBC Edmonton Bureau

EDMONTON (Eagle news) — The first healthcare worker in Alberta, Canada to die of COVID-19 has been identified as a Filipino-Canadian.

Joe (Jing) Corral died December 28 from the infection. He was 61.

Corral worked as a healthcare aide at the Bethany Riverview long-term care center in Calgary.

In a Facebook tribute, he is remembered as someone who treated everyone with respect and dignity.

Corral is described as a good man who spent his remaining days taking care of seniors.

“He is truly an inspiration,” the tribute said. “We will forever miss you Kuya Joe, our Hero! Joe, we will be forever grateful for all your handwork.”

Alberta Health Minister Tyler Shandro extended his condolences.

“The tragedy of this loss will be felt across the system, and by those who were cared for by this individual and their co-workers” said Shandro in a statement Monday. “Their service will not be forgotten.”

(Eagle News Service)