Canadian Jacobin Breeder Dies
| It was with sadness and shock that many of us learned of the sudden untimely passing of Joe Masnyk on July 1st, 2003. Joe was truly one of the greatest breeders and showmen of Jacobins and Fantails that Canada has seen. Joe started his stud of Jacobins in the mid 1980’s with the best birds he could acquire from top breeders in both Canada and the U.S. Joe was an instant success and birds he bred began winning at major shows. Joe supported the Canadian National Jacobin show and his wins at this prestigious event have included Grand Champion, Reserve Champion, Best Opposite Sex and Champion Young as well as many best of colour awards too numerous to mention. Joe was best known for his great Red Jacobins which were sought after by many breeders. Joe bred feather quality as a first priority in his Jacobins and his Jacobins carried the most beautiful smooth shining hard feather as a result. Joe was a Master at conditioning his birds also and when he came to a show every bird he brought looked its best and he only showed quality birds. Joe was equally successful with his Fantails breeding and showing many Grand Champions in many colours. The list of fanciers who Joe supplied quality stock to would be endless and would reach from coast to coast and beyond. The loss of Joe Masnyk was and is a serious blow to the pigeon fancy and we will miss him. We must also be thankful for his time with us and his great contributions to the betterment of our hobby through his breeding, sharing and exhibiting superior stock. We will always remember Joe Masnyk. |