It is with profound sadness the family announces the passing of Dr. James Stakiw on March 17, 2020. He was the son of the late Walter and Nell Stakiw. Surviving him is his beloved wife, Diane; three children, Susan, Lesley and Jill; six grandchildren, Nicole, James, Parker, Lochlan, Peri and Blake; his brother Dr. Ken Stakiw (Elaine); and three nieces, Julie, Allison and Jennifer. One daughter predeceased him, our dearest Laura.
He received his DMD and PhD Degrees from the University of Manitoba and was a Fellow of the International College of Dentists. Although he spent his professional career maintaining a specialty practice as a Periodontist, he was often mistaken for a professional gardener as he transformed many yards into peaceful oases; he saw the potential in everything and everyone he met.
His commitment to the community in which he lived was evident by his time serving on the Boards of several organizations including the Saskatoon and Provincial St. John Ambulance, Provincial Canadian Forces Liaison Council, Canadian Corps of Commissionaires North Saskatchewan Division and the United Services Institute of Saskatoon. As an accomplished pianist, James was able to share his love of music during his time as a past President of Orchestra London.
Dr. Stakiw was a member of the teaching staff at both St. Joseph’s and University Hospitals in London, Ontario and also the President of the London and District Dental Society and an Executive Member of the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario. Upon returning to Saskatoon, he taught at the University of Saskatchewan College of Dentistry and was Acting Dean of Dentistry from 2002 to 2006.
He was proud of his time serving as an Honourary Lieutenant Colonel for the 16 (Sask) Field Ambulance, Canadian Forces Health Services as well as a Dental Officer and a Logistics Officer in the CF Reserves with 22 (London) Service Battalion. To say he had an interest in the military and the welfare of the troops would be an understatement. He felt a connection and responsibility to remember and honour those who served in the military and passed along his knowledge and respect to everyone who knew him.
“The wonder of the world, the beauty and power, the shapes of things, their colours, lights and shades, these I saw Look ye also while life lasts.”
As per James’ wishes there will be a private family ceremony to honour his life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Laura Stakiw Memorial Award in the School of Dentistry at Western University or online at www.westernconnect.ca/Stakiw. Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
53 Responses
I was deeply saddened to hear about Dr. Stakiw’s passing.
I had the honor and pleasure of spending wonderful time with him, his wife Mrs. Diane, his daughter Dr. Susan, and some of their family members during their visit to Saudi Arabia. We truly enjoyed exploring the deserts, cities, and villages together.
He was a kind, curious, and gracious man, and those memories will always remain dear to me.
My sincere condolences to Mrs. Diane, Dr. Susan, and the entire family.
May his memory continue to inspire all those who were fortunate enough to know him.
Back in 1978, Jim sold me his six-inch Cave Student Standard. I still have that telescope, and a few more since then! It helped get me started in exploring the universe, and I am grateful to have acquired it from him. I am sorry to hear of Jim’s passing.
I had the pleasure of instruction at U of western from Dr Stakiw. He was a wonderful personable teacher. And he also was a teacher you could confide in during those confusing young years developing our skills. Honestly the nicest professor I ever had and I have thought of him often even after grad as a person Ive tried to emulate. Just a wonderful talent he was. Thanks for everything.