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
This is very sad news. I have many and very fond memories of Jim. He was truly a class act who will be sorely missed. I will cherish his memory with great fondness and respect. My thoughts and prayers are with Dianne and your wonderful “girls “.
Diane & family
We are so sad to hear of Jim’s passing. He was a wonderful friend and we will all miss him so. We treasure the wonderful times we shared. Our condolences to all your family. Love, Blake & Sandra
Dear Diane, Susan, Lesley, Jill and families. Sorry to hear of Jim’s (Dad’s) passing . My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Many great memories . Take care.
Dr. Stakiw was the definition of a gentleman and an officer. He was my Dean in dental school. We shared the mutual bond of being in the armed forces. He was always well-spoken, articulate, intelligent and precise. A military man indeed. He was an influential figure in my career. My thoughts go out to his family.
Jim and I were among the first wave of the Tarnowetzky grand children. I was the oldest so remember when Jim was born – very bonnie baby. So, it is with sadness that I send my condolences to Diane and their extended family. He certainly lived a full life.
Dr. Stakiw was a professor and faculty advisor of mine at the University of Saskatchewan. I respected his stoic personality and demeanor. A good man that I looked up during our brief time together. Thoughts and prayers to the family.
My sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Dr. Stakiw. I worked closely with him at the University of Saskatchewan and was able to be in touch with him on occasion after his retirement. He was a valued colleague and friend and will truly be missed.
What a beautiful life he lived. I’m so very sorry for your loss.
I am very sorry to hear of James passing and extend my condolences to the family.
James and I were in the same grades and also took music in Foam Lake at the same time.
I was always proud of his accomplishments and involvements in the community. He will
missed and always be remembered as my hero.
Our thoughts and Prayers are with you.
God rest his soul.
John and I were heartbroken to hear of Jim’s passing. He was such a “good guy”!! We fondly remember our time together with he and Diane as newly weds in Winnipeg. As the years past we stayed in touch and know his presence will be sorely missed by his family and friends. Rest In Peace Jim.