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
An incredibly kind and thoughtful man. A true gentlemen and scholar. He will be greatly missed.
Sonny Khanna
My condolences going out to the Stakiw family at this time.
May Dr. James Stakiw rest in peace.
Diane and family, I was truly saddened to learn of Jim’s passing. I was a dental student when he was completing his doctorate degree. I had the opportunity to know him through my time in Dr. Charles Dowse’s laboratory and during the two years I practiced in Saskatoon. He was an outstanding, kind, thoughtful and passionate individual. He was an excellent mentor and friend during that time in my life. I wish you and your family the very best, Jim has left a true legacy in the minds and hearts of many!
Saddened to hear of the passing of an amazing dentist and professor. Had the priviledge of having Dr stackiw as a professor at the University of Saskatchewan. Condolences to his family and friends.
So sad to hear this news. Dr Stakiw was an inspiring educator and a wonderful man. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.
Dr Stakiw was one of my most important mentors and truly helped me be the clinician I am today. He was always so kind, forthright, and impressive. My deepest condolences to his family and friends.
My condolences to your family. I have good memories of him during my time at Saskatoon. He will be missed.
Dr. Stakiw was one of the nicest professors I’ve had in dental school. He will be missed but not forgotten.
One of the kindest men, and an exemplary individual. I’m honored to have been taught and have Dr Stakiw as my dean. He has left a legacy for hundreds to remember him by
Dr. Stakiw was a professor and a colleague. I always appreciated his even temperament and candor. I remember when he was retiring from the College of Dentistry and I was given his Occlusion class to teach – he invited me into his office, pointed me to his bookshelf and told me to take what I needed. I am thankful for the time I got to share with him, and am sorry for the family’s loss.