Jim passed away peacefully, surrounded by his wife, children and family on November 17, 2021, after living courageously with ALS for several years. Jim was brave, positive and independent, cherishing each moment, where others may have lost hope.
Jim was born on March 21, 1953, in Nipawin, Saskatchewan to Jack (D.2020) and Hazel (D.2012) Redmond. Jim’s fighting spirit and larger-than-life presence were immediately apparent at birth, when he braved a blizzard in an air ambulance to receive a rare, life-saving blood transfusion within hours of being born.
Jim came from a large family, many of whom share his quick wit and affinity for Kokanee (the good stuff). Those nearest to Jim will remember raucous political debates and listening to him tell (and re-tell) campfire stories about his illustrious career, many of which remain hotly contested as to whether they were fact or fiction. Jim was an incredible son, brother, husband, father, uncle, grandfather and friend. He will be forever loved and forever missed by his wife Mira; daughters Lisa and Kristen (Nick) Payn; son Adam (Jon); grandchildren Parker and Lyla; brothers Gerry (Rudy) and Leary (Colleen); sisters Cindy (Jim) and Joanne (Dan); brother-in-law Denis (Trish); and a great many nieces and nephews.
Jim and Mira were married for 43 loving years. His early career as an RCMP officer relocated them to Innisfail (AB), after which he joined the federal government within Citizenship and Immigration Canada, which took his family across B.C. and the Yukon. Not one to wait for retirement to see the world, Jim worked his last three years in The Hague, Netherlands, allowing him and Mira to travel extensively throughout Europe before returning home. His career spanned over 35 years of dedicated and decorated service. In his retirement, Jim loved to golf, fish, and enjoy a cold margarita with company in Mexico.
A memorial service will be held in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens on Friday, November 26. For further details surrounding attendance (in-person or virtually), please email JimRedmondMemorial@gmail.com.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the ALS Society of BC which provided tremendous support to Jim and his family during his battle with ALS. Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
29 Responses
Mira and family, we are shocked and saddened to hear of Jim’s passing. I worked closely with Jim at CIC Vancouver from 1987-90, and through the course of our immigration careers we periodically crossed paths. Jim was a true and well respected professional. A true leader, mentor and friend who brought the best out of those around him. He was dedicated, always considerate, yet practical and light hearted. Jim will be sorely missed by all of us!
Mira and family
Our sincere condolences. Jim was one of the best I ever worked alongside and your Christmas Parties were the social event of the year. Our thoughts are with you
Ray and Ellen Legare
Jim your family have my families deep condolences. Remember our first days getting to know one another at Depot Troop 1 . The the next five months as senior troop. I’m so sorry we did not stay in touch over the years. RIP Jim
Dear Mira, Adam, Lisa, Kristen and families
So very sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. Our thoughts are with you all during this difficult time.
No words can describe the greatness of Jim. He was an admired mentor to me and I strived to have his strength, sincerity and balance in life, particularly in how he related to people. He was very kind, caring, understanding and compassionate while always ready to provide a helping hand. He had a passion for all things in life and always strived to make a difference. He started out as my boss but soon became my friend – a friend that I will miss very much. My sincerest condolences to you all. Jim -rest in peace my friend – you are one of the good ones!
Sharing in your sorrow with love and friendship
Shin and Rita Sall
Dear Mira and family
It is with sad hearts we hear of Jim’s passing. He was a good friend and a great neighbour. A kind and loving person with an entertaining sense of humour. Steadfast during his challenging illness he was a wonderful role model for us all. Dennis will miss his best ever fishing buddy . Dennis & Pat Helwer
I’m so grateful I got to know Jim even a wee bit since 2016. He was so welcoming and kind to Mom and all of us. He will be so missed.
Kristen and Nick we were so saddened to hear of your loss. Let your memories of you dad surround like a big hug. Love Mary and Arch ❤️
Sending the Redmond family so much love and support during this very difficult time. I can definitely say Jim’s quick wit has been passed onto his wonderful children and it is clear his spirit and legacy will be honoured and remembered by those who loved him always. Much love and comfort, Melissa
Sending all my love and support to you Mira, Lisa, Kristen and Adam. Jim was such a good hearted person. He had such a kind smile, always trying to crack jokes or sarcastic comments to make others smile. My kids remember him as the popsicle man because any time we were in town and poped by he always was so excited to whisper to me if it was ok to give the kids a treat. Always happy to welcome us into his home as I’m sure I surpassed my meal count in the Redmond’s household. Even had to follow him to The Hague where he still welcomed me into his house with open arms. He loved his family and that was easy to see. He will be truly missed and always remembered.
Mira, I’m stunned by the news of Jim’s passing. I know you were a very close couple and can only imagine the challenges you are facing. Your children will no doubt be a great comfort and can share in memories of happier days. It was nice to read that you spent time in your home-away-from-home in Mexico and shared happy times there. My heart aches for you and your family during this difficult time. Deepest sympathies, and a hug.
~ Viki Anderson