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Major James Allan Cratchley

November 11, 2016

JamesCrathleyweb

1938-2016

Jim passed away on Remembrance Day, 2016, after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. He died at home with his loving wife Bonnie, of 53 years, his son Stan and his daughter Michelle, by his side. He was predeceased by his brother Stan, his mother Cecile and his father, Bill. He leaves behind grandchildren Ryan, Brody, Paige, Ethan, Lauren, Tyler and many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

Jim was born and raised in Powell River, B.C. He joined the RCAF in 1957. Jim earned the respect of his colleagues during an extensive flying career, both as a fighter pilot and a flight instructor. As a staff officer this respect continued as he was asked to establish and command the Air Force Indoctrination School (AFIS) in 1980. In 1983 he was called to serve in a challenging post at the National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa. It was there that he was awarded the CANADIAN AIRMAN of the YEAR. This award recognized his outstanding performance both in his role with AFIS and the Armed Forces. He retired from the Air Force in 1986 and went on to run a salmon fishing resort for the next 18 years with his wife Bonnie. He truly loved what he did in the Military and then up at Stuart Island B.C.

Jim loved golfing, hunting, fishing, cruising with his wife and friends, drinking red wine, the Toronto Blue Jays and most of all being with his family.

He will live forever in our hearts and be missed beyond words.

FLY HIGH Jim, until we meet again



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