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January 26, 1945 - February 16, 2019
Jim passed away peacefully following a lengthy illness with daughter Janice by his side.

Born in Trail BC, Jim grew up in the small nearby town of Fruitvale. Not always an enthusiastic student he did excel at sports and loved all things outdoors. As an adult he developed an insatiable curiosity for history, geography and science. He also enjoyed finding solutions to mechanical problems thru ingenuity and invention.

In 1962, seventeen year old Jim enlisted with the Royal Canadian Army Service Corps and rode across Canada on his motorcycle to Borden, Ontario for basic training. His first posting was to Germany and being of German descent he embraced the geography, culture and language while serving there for a period of eight years. Jim chose mobile support equipment operation as his specialty and there was nothing with an ignition that he couldn't ride, drive or operate. While in Germany he married and had two children, Sandra and Ron. Upon his return to Canada he was posted to Downsview, Ontario. His marriage ended but he found forever love with Donna, his wife of 38 years. Jim was thrilled when he was transferred back to his home province of BC and CFB Comox to continue his work in transporation until his military retirement.

Jim's health steadily declined after his wife Donna passed in 2013. His daughter Janice moved into the family home to care for him and there was not one day in his remaining 5 years that he did not take the time to thank her for being there. His last years were dedicated to researching family history and he was diligent about keeping in touch with family and friends. Each day was a struggle yet he never lost his sense of humour, his pragmatic approach to life or his desire to learn. He was a proud member of the Comox Legion and a natural peace keeper in a world that has so desperately needs it. He certainly earned the peace he has now.

Predeceased by parents David and Hope and wife Donna, Jim is survived by children Sandra and Ron both of Ontario and their children, step-daughters Susan, Sharon and Janice, his beloved cousin Ron (Mary) Klassen of Alaska, his very special Aunt Pearl Lindstrom (Nanaimo) and his loving companion dog Winnie.

Special thanks to Dr. Langhans for his steady guiding hand, the daily home support workers (particularly Cheryl and Steve who cared for his spirit as much as his health), the staff of the Medicine Shoppe Comox for their consistent and superior service and to Morris Kotyluk whose visits Jim eagerly awaited every week. Heartfelt thanks also to Carrie, Toby, Joan and Michele for being there when you were needed most.

Cremation. No service by request.

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