James (Jim to me) was born in Barrie, Ontario on June 26, 1940, and did his growing up there. He left us peacefully on March 7, 2020 surrounded by love and extraordinary care at CV Hospice. Survived by good friends, and immediate family: his spouse, Rosie, brothers Gene, Fran and John, sisters Pam and Paula, children Christina, Christopher and Samantha, and their loved ones and predeceased by sisters Debbie and Cindy.
Truly one of the good guys, Jim was a gentle man who respected everyone. If he met you once, he remembered you forever. If there was an opportunity he could help send your way - he would. He had vision and big ideas and pursued them with dogged determination. You only fail if you do not try. Recent adversities revealed his incredible strength and fortitude - he battled back - not once, but twice. Thrice, sadly, was not possible, even for him.
In the 60's Jim discovered Yorkville in Toronto and as you can imagine, there came a life of adventures in the land of music. Of course, when there's music there's gotta' be a road trip! Jim travelled near and far, finally landing in Winnipeg in the '70s because of tour management. And that's where we met. In 1993 we moved to the Island and a opened a new chapter. So many people, so many experiences: Litton Aerospace, GBX, Foot in Cold Water, Three Days of Blues, Morris Music Fest, Rally in the Valley, Nautical Days, Canada Day, and the musicians he befriended and believed in, and everyone else along the way, are but a few of the highlights.
Lucky for me, James was not only ruggedly handsome, he was handy too! His 'day' job was mostly working with his hands. Never one to say no to work - or a music thing - jobs around our place sometimes suffered! Just a few days ago Jim said, "I've had a good life". Even with an unfinished job or two, I say - I've had a good life too.
We very much thank Home Support for all their help. The wonder of Hospice cannot be overstated. In memory of James, please consider a donation to: Comox Valley Hospice Society, 102 - 1509 Cliffe Ave. Courtenay V9N 2K6.
Jim's ashes will be interred in the family plot in Midhurst, Ont. A Celebration of Life will be in our backyard, in June on what would have been his 80th birthday. You are most welcome - we'll let you know the details. Condolences may be offered at www.telfordtoneffboyd.ca
Telford, Toneff and Boyd Burial and Cremation Centres