James (Jim) Robert Wilks
The train left the station September 5, 2017
Jim died peacefully in his sleep. He was born to Robert and Lydia Wilks, a railroad family in Grand Forks, BC. Jim developed a love of railroads early in his life. The family transferred to Nelson, BC when Jim was 6 years old. He graduated from high school in Nelson, and then went on to University of BC where he got his teaching degree. In Nelson, Jim’s group of friends became known as “The Hardy Boys” and they have been steadfast friends all his life.
In September 1961 he began his 30-year teaching career with David Thompson Jr/Sr High School in Invermere, BC leading classes in Industrial Arts and teaching grade 5 students.
Jim retired to Parksville, BC, then to Comox, BC where he became committed to helping Habitat for Humanity. He also spent many hours in the wood working shop at the Senior Centre. The scrabble group was a source of fun and enjoyment for Jim and he received the coveted Spam trophy. A 1953 Triumph Mayflower was his latest passion. Recently Jim reconnected with Connie McCalla and his happy smile became apparent to all his friends.
Jim leaves behind his sister Connie, nephew Glenn, niece Christine (Roger), special friend Connie McCalla and numerous cousins.
Please join us for his Celebration of Life at the d’Esterre Senior Centre (1801 Beaufort Ave, Comox, BC) on Sunday, September 24, 2017 at 2:00 pm. You are invited to bring stories, pictures and memories to share. Please join us in remembering Jim by visiting our memorial at www.piercysmtwashingtonfuneral.com
Jim is gone.
You can shed tears that Jim is gone
Or you can smile because he has lived.
You can close your eyes and pray that he will come back.
Or you can open your eyes and see all that he has left.
Your heart can be empty because you can’t see him
Or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday.
You can remember him and only that he is gone.
Or you can cherish his memory and let it live on.