James Wilson Grahame (aka Wiz, Wils, Wizlon, Dad, Grandpa, Sweetheart, colleague, healer and friend) died peacefully on November 6, 2020 in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. He was born on February 13, 1939 in Maghera, Northern Ireland. Wilson is survived by his loving wife Jane, and their blended family of six children, Michael, Jennifer, Stephanie, Timothy, Penny, Oliver; and six grandchildren, Rileigh, Storme, Skyler, Laighton, Caitlin, Dylan.
Wilson studied medicine at Queen’s University, Belfast before immigrating to Canada in 1965 where he undertook a Urology residency in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and was blessed with two children from his first marriage. In 1976 he relocated to Vancouver, British Columbia, married his “Darling” Jane the following year, and expanded his family with open arms to include her four children. After a triple bypass in 1993, he fully embraced his new lease on life, retired from his Urology practice and moved with Jane to Maple Bay on Vancouver Island, before eventually settling in Oak Bay, Victoria.
With a twinkle in his eye and an abundance of Irish humour, Wilson pursued his passions whole-heartedly and with vigor; from sailing, to travelling, gardening, sports (Go Canucks!), guitar, and most importantly spending time with family. He left an indelible impression on the innumerable lives he touched along the way. Kind, generous, loyal, funny, wise, full of life, maker of mischief, and bringer of joy, the world was better for having him in it. Truly a class act!
A private family ceremony was held in Victoria on Friday, November 13, 2020. Click on the link below to watch the service.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Wilson’s honour to Canuck Place Children’s Hospice: https://www.canuckplace.org/
Memories, tributes to celebrate Wilson’s life and condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
27 Responses
OH My Dear Jane,
How sorrowful it was to hear the news yesterday about Wilson… our honorable “Mayor of Maple Bay” and our good friend (as you are). The twinkle in his eye, the lilt in his voice and his total joy of life and family was infectious. He added much joy to our lives. Hugs and Love,, Karen
Dear Jane and Family–My daughter Tammy and I were so sad to read of Wilson’s death.
Such a fun time at Quadra island with both of you a couple of years ago with the hiking group!
Our heartfelt condolences..
Tammy and Tina
Jane, I was so sorry to hear of Wilson’s passing. I have such fond memories of the times that Bob and I shared with you and Wilson. Wilson was one of a kind and will be greatly missed by you and your family. I’m sure that Wilson and Bob are having a great time!
Love to you and the family.
Our condolences to the family on the loss of your wonderful patriarch. One of the world’s characters. Always the life and soul of the regular morning “ parties “ in the changing room of the Oak Bay rec. centre. I would also like to recall with gratitude Wilson’s prompt actions in dealing with medical emergencies at two of our social gatherings. Firstly, a wasp sting in the mouth of a trombone player. Secondly ( and more seriously ), on another occasion, Wilson noticed that the trumpet player was sitting out in some distress, suspected heart problems, drove him to hospital and undoubtedly saved his life.A great friend ! I will miss him also.
Dear Jane, I was so saddened to hear about Wilson. He was such a darling man, funny and so caring. My thoughts are with you. Love Shirley
Jane, He was truly a wonderful man. Our thoughts are with you and your family.
With love from
Anne and Ian
SO sorry to learn of Wilson’s passing. We have many happy memories of time shared with Wilson and Jane in False Creek Yacht Club when we sailed together, laughed together. The most memorable was when Wilson entertained us one St.Patrick’s Day – joke after joke from ‘The Biggest Leprechaun out of Ireland’. Wilson was truly a warm and ‘larger than life’ character who will be missed by so many. With heartfelt sympathy to Jane and family. Darrylyn and Jeff Child