It is with tremendous sorrow and heart -break, that we announce the passing of a wonderful husband, dad, grandpa, brother, uncle and friend. Jim passed away peacefully at home in Victoria, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous and valiant battle with cancer.
Dad was predeceased by his parents, Bill and Marg Allen. He is survived by his loving wife Rita, who was his rock throughout these past few months providing the special care which allowed him to stay at home as he wished. He is greatly missed by his children Lyndsay (Iain), Chris (Kim), Mike, grandchildren Tyson, Brianna, Emily & Ashley, who were Jim’s pride and joy, brothers Dave (Sharon) and Murray (Lana), Tas, Brenda, Rita’s daughters Tricia, Lisa, Jenny and their families, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and many, many dear friends.
Taken far too soon from us, Dad lived his life to the fullest. He was proud to say he was from Esquimalt where he grew up, attended school, participated in Cubs, Scouts, played ice hockey and was the drummer with the band Prism Bar. After graduation Jim started his career with Weston Bakeries delivering bread throughout the Victoria area and then became Island Manager until his retirement. Over this time in business Jim enjoyed many strong friendships which continued until his passing.
Dad enjoyed many activities throughout his life, from his love of music, waterskiing at Shawnigan and Sproat Lakes, to boating around the Gulf Islands and travelling to the warmer destinations of Mexico, Hawaii and Arizona. Over the past few years he thoroughly enjoyed camping with Rita in “Harvey”, both on and off the Island. He always enjoyed the time around the campfire with family and friends, frequently with a glass of ‘Crown’ in hand. Jimmy and Rita spent many happy times at Cowichan Lake with their close group of friends leaving all with great memories.
Family was everything to Dad. There’s nothing he wouldn’t do for any one of us. He loved us as much as we loved him. We always knew he was there for us.
The family would like to thank Dr. Hartford and Cindy, Rita and Jim’s caring neighbours and members of the Hospice and Palliative Care Teams for their strong support during these past few months and a special thank you to Tricia and Lisa for their tremendous help and guidance throughout Jim’s illness.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of your choice.
A Celebration of Life was held in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens on Friday, August 27, 2021. Click the image below to watch a recording of the service.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
33 Responses
I got to know Jim as he met, dated, and married my sister Tas. As brothers-in-law do, we bumped into each other from time to time in subsequent years at family events and such. I knew he was a nice guy and a good man. I knew that he loved his family, worked hard, and really enjoyed a rich and full life with them and his friends in many ways.
I liked him but I didn’t know him well.
That thought struck me today during the memorial service as loved ones painted a rich portrait of him through their stories and remembrances and later through the photo collage. I came to realize what a truly special man, husband, father, grandfather, and friend he was to so many people (including the Duncan family). He was a remarkable person and I wish very much I had known him better. He was truly a good one. I am so sorry he was taken so soon. My condolences to all of his family and friends. Your loss is truly great.
It is with great sadness that we acknowledge Jim’s passing. May the fond memories bring you some comfort during this difficult time.
Rita and family, my deepest sympathy on the loss of Jim. Jim was an owner in our building as well as President of our Strata Council for many years and did a wonderful job. He will truly be missed by all who knew him.